Football and Brain Health
A new study indicates a higher rate of dementia in former N.F.L. players.
The New York Times released findings from the study on September 29. The research, which was conducted by the University of Michigan's Institute for Social Research, found that former professional football players are 19 times more likely than the national population to develop memory-related diseases. The study was commissioned by the National Football League (N.F.L.).
In response to the study House Judiciary Committee Chairman John Conyers held a hearing on October 28, calling it a "life and death issue."
For further research:
- An introduction to the issue of head injury in adults*.
- Selected safety tips for football players.
- Brain injury affects more than just the individual. The Mayo Clinic provides a guide for family members [pdf].
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