Getting quick treatment for head injuries — even if symptoms don’t initially seem serious — could cut Alzheimer’s risk in half, according to a new study by Case Western Reserve University.

Specifically, receiving physical and cognitive therapy within a week of injury reduces risk of future Alzheimer’s by more than 40 percent, the study found.

The report's finding could change patient and hospital behavior, according to study co-author Austin Kennemer of CWRU's medical school.

“If patients are aware of that, they can advocate for themselves to receive these services," Kennemer said. "Hopefully, hospitals change their systems to prioritize rehab immediately following an injury.”

Traumatic brain injuries are caused by violent or sudden impact and are linked to Alzheimer’s. However, people

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