Football players who lose consciousness after concussions are more likely to suffer from memory loss later in life according to a recent study conducted by retired NFL players.
“Our results do suggest that players with a history of concussion with a loss of consciousness may be at a greater risk for cognitive problems later in life,” says Munro Cullum, chief of neuropsychology at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. According to a recent CBC article, “We are at the early stages of understanding who is actually at risk at the individual level.”
The study compared brain scans of 27 people who didn’t play college or pro football to 28 former NFL athletes. Participants ranged in age from 41 to 77 and were similar in age, education and mental capacity.
Researchers concluded football players were far more likely to suffer brain damage and cognitive impairment years after retirement. Players who had a concussion history paired with mild cognitive impairments got the lowest scores.
An estimated 28% of NFL players are expected to develop long-term cognitive problems from brain trauma suffered during their careers.
Recently, San Francisco 49er Chris Borland made news when he retired early due to concussion fears. Most NFL concussion victims don’t receive medical attention because they don’t lose consciousness. Brain injuries are missed when injured players and NFL medical staff ignore subtle symptoms.
Every concussion injures your brain and requires proper medical attention.
For more information:
- Memory loss may be more common in NFL athletes left unconscious by concussion, CBC
- NFL Player Retires at 24 Due to Concussion Fears, Slater Vecchio
