Epidemiology of acquired brain injury (ABI) in adults: prevalence of long-term disabilities and the resulting needs for ongoing care in the region of Flanders, Belgium.

In order to plan services for long-term care of those with acquired brain injury (ABI), the prevalence of ABI was investigated by using a postal inquiry sent to a representative sample of general practitioners, of whom 121 cooperated and registered 186 cases. The corresponding estimated prevalence of adults with ABI-related disabilities is 183 per 100 000 population. The large majority remained at home without professional assistance.