Concussions and other traumatic brain injuries have been getting a lot of press in the past few years. Medical research has shown that athletes of all ages are suffering from concussions at a higher rate than previously thought. Researchers recently announced that studies show that National Football League (NFL) players are at a greatly increased risk of dying from degenerative brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Lou Gehrig’s Disease (ALS).
Pro football players are signing up to have their brains donated to research facilities after their deaths in an attempt to help with research and treatment for future athletes. Many former players have sued the NFL, claiming the organization downplayed the risks of concussions and other brain injuries.
As a result of legal claims and the growing need for more information about the link between athletic activities and brain trauma, the NFL recently pledged $30 million to fund additional research.
Areas of Research
The funds provided by the NFL are intended to be used for research regarding a number of brain injuries including:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS)
- Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE)
- Parkinson’s disease
- Concussions
- Other traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
It is hoped that the research will provide insight into the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of brain trauma and degenerative brain disease in athletes, military personnel and members of the general public.
Source: Huffington Post, “NFL Pledges $30 Million To National Institutes Of Health For Concussion, Brain Trauma, CTE Research,” September 5, 2012.
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