HEADING FOR TROUBLE
Worrying evidence of dementia link with sport
THE long-term damage caused by repeated head injuries sustained playing sport have been revealed for the first time. A pioneering study shows the effects of multiple concussions in rugby players continue to have an impact on their brain even in retirement.
While rugby players were the focus of the research, the results have implications for other contact sports including football, boxing, mixed martial arts, American football, hockey, and horse racing.
The impact of recurrent concussions sustained over two decades of playing rugby union at regional and international level were examined by a team from the Neurovascular Research Laboratory at the University of South Wales,
Their findings shed light on the persistent symptoms of concussion experienced by retired players and their impaired cognitive abilities, which may increase their vulnerability to dementia later in life.
Researchers identified a likely cause for these issues – a reduction in blood flow to the brain due to a decrease in nitric oxide, a vital chemical that helps arteries relax and deliver the necessary oxygen and glucose for proper brain function.
Professor Damian Bailey, who led the study, said:
”By understanding the underlying mechanisms and biomarkers of brain health, we can better protect players throughout their careers and develop targeted interventions to improve brain blood flow and cognitive function.”
The study coincides with Professor Bailey’s contributions to the first UK-wide Concussion Guidelines for Grassroots Sport, developed in collaboration with the Government and the Sport and Recreation Alliance.
Lack of awareness
Professor Bailey added, “One of the most striking observations from our research was the lack of concussion awareness during the active careers of these retired athletes. Players often continued playing despite experiencing classic concussion symptoms.”
After retiring from professional sport many athletes undergo lifestyle changes, like poor diet, alcohol dependency and lack of exercise, which might accelerate their cognitive decline.
The researchers’ next steps will be to expand the study to recently retired rugby players to pinpoint the “tipping point” when this cognitive decline accelerates.