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High School Football: Are Young Brains at Risk?
10 Sep
Summary
- Recent CTE study confirms high rates in deceased NFL players.
- Sub-concussive hits in youth sports cause brain damage.
- Massachusetts needs stronger safety mandates for young athletes.
Recent findings from a study focusing on deceased NFL players have intensified concerns about head trauma in sports, particularly for young athletes. The research, conducted by Mass General Brigham, Boston University, and the Concussion and CTE Foundation, examined brains of players who died between 2016 and 2021. CTE was confirmed in a significant percentage of these brains, underscoring the cumulative impact of head injuries sustained throughout an athlete's career.
Experts emphasize that head impacts begin at early levels, including high school and even youth leagues, contributing to the long-term risk of neurodegenerative diseases like CTE. This risk isn't limited to football; hockey and soccer also pose dangers due to repeated head trauma, including non-concussive impacts. Awareness of these risks has led to a decrease in football sign-ups in Massachusetts.
Massachusetts' current safety guidelines, managed by the MIAA, are criticized for being insufficient. While some practices limit full contact, mandates for athletic trainers at practices and the use of protective equipment like Guardian caps are lacking. Schools and organizations are urged to implement stronger protective measures to safeguard student athletes from potentially devastating head injuries.
