CHRONIC TRAUMATIC ENCEPHALOPATHY DAESHON STREET

WHAT IT IS… Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) is a progressive degenerative disease of the brain found in athletes (and others) with a history of repetitive brain trauma, including symptomatic concussions as well as asymptomatic sub-concussive hits to the head.

WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE…

HISTORY AND RESEARCH… CTE has been known to affect boxers since the 1920s. A recent study showed that a total of 87 out of 91 deceased former NFL players tested positive for a brain disease. Researchers with the Department of Veterans Affairs and Boston University have now identified the disease as CTE. CTE leads to conditions such as memory loss, depression, and dementia.

MORE RESEARCH… Researchers tested 42 retired players between the ages of 40 and 69 and found that those who started playing football prior to age 12 performed "significantly worse" on three measures: estimated verbal IQ; executive function, which includes reasoning and planning; and memory impairment. The authors concluded that incurring repeated head impacts in football between the ages of 10 and 12, a critical and sensitive window for brain development, may increase the risk of later-life cognitive impairment. During those early years, the brain is rapidly building connections between neurons.

EXPOSURE… League officials have now taken strides to end helmet-to-helmet hits. If a player is seen doing it, they face possible suspension and fines. The movie Concussion starring Will Smith, enlightened many in the public of the seriousness of this topic. Also how dangerous the sport is.

CONCLUSION… As you can see, football has ruined many players lives after their career is over. The more people that know about it, will bring change to the situation and make the game safer for future generations.