A groundbreaking study has recently revealed “definitive proof” that repetitive head impacts can lead to degenerative brain disease. This analysis, conducted by world-leading experts, calls for prominent sports organizations to acknowledge the findings.
Researchers from Oxford Brookes University, along with 12 other academic institutions, partnered with Concussion Legacy Foundation UK to undertake this study. They emphasize the need for further efforts in preventing and mitigating chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), especially in relation to children.
The study draws on independent research conducted by the brain banks of the US Department of Defense, Boston University-US Department of Veterans Affairs, and Mayo Clinic. These studies show that individuals engaged in contact sports have a minimum 68 times higher risk of developing CTE compared to those who do not participate in any contact sport.
Dr. Chris Nowinski, the lead author of the study and CEO of Concussion Legacy Foundation, states, “This groundbreaking study provides us with the highest level of scientific confidence that repeated head impacts are a direct cause of CTE.”
He continues, “Sports governing bodies must acknowledge the causal connection between head impacts and CTE, and refrain from misleading the public on the subject. Athletes continue to suffer from this devastating disease, and families are being torn apart.”
Dr. Adam J White, senior lecturer in sport and coaching sciences at Oxford Brookes University and executive director of Concussion Legacy Foundation UK, adds, “This analysis underscores the urgency to include repetitive head impacts and CTE within other child safety efforts, such as smoking, sunburn prevention, and alcohol consumption.”
He concludes, “Repetitive head impacts and CTE should be recognized and addressed in the discussion surrounding global public health, particularly as preventable disorders resulting from childhood exposure in contact sports like football, rugby, and ice hockey.”
The research paper titled ‘Applying the Bradford Hill Criteria for Causation to Repetitive Head Impacts and Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy’ has been published in the journal Frontiers in Neurology. The aim is to compel prominent sporting organizations such as FIFA and World Rugby to acknowledge the causal relationship between CTE and repetitive head impacts.
Earlier this month, the Football Association announced its plans to implement a trial removing heading from selected grassroots competitions and leagues. Similarly, rugby has seen several players displaying symptoms of early-onset dementia. As a result, lobby group Progressive Rugby is finalizing a comprehensive set of critical player welfare requirements to be submitted to organizations like World Rugby and the Rugby Football Union.
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