The Shelton Foundation was established as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization to enable innovative research initiatives for
the early diagnosis and management of neurotrauma in a military environment. The Foundation will sponsor sustained research
and development of far forward diagnostics, data collection systems, and new techniques and treatments designed to restore
and repair neural injury.
The Need
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a predominant cause of injury for soldiers in Iraq with implications for long-term health
concerns. There is a dramatic rise in both open and closed (concussive) head injuries due to increased use of improvised
explosive devices. It is estimated that 30% of combat-related casualties in Iraq sustained a brain injury.
- Walter Reed has reported that 62% of patients screened had traumatic brain injury; slightly more than half
had
permanent brain damage.
- TBI screening at National Naval Medical Center showed that 83% of patients had temporary or permanent brain
damage.
- It is estimated that 10% of all troops and up to 20% of front line infantry troops suffer concussions during combat
tours, some with multiple concussions.
The Challenges
- There is limited advocacy for military relevant neurotrauma research efforts and very little funding available.
- There is a critical need for sustainable leadership and guidance in advancing research initiatives that stress the
early diagnosis and intervention of neurotrauma as well as the unique requirements of combat injuries.
- There are no coordinated neurotrauma focused data collections or archive efforts currently in existence.