Why Collision and Concussion Are Sports’ Twin Dangers

Danger signs are racking up in the world of sports about the long-term consequences of head injuries. From concussions to the routine heading of soccer balls, there’s mounting evidence that professional and amateur players risk paying a serious price later in life. Rugby player Steve Thompson, a World Cup winner for England in 2003, was recently diagnosed in his 40s with early onset dementia. It’s a growing concern not just for players, parents and high schools, but also for the leagues and ruling bodies that are facing law suits.

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy. It’s a degenerative brain disease notably found in autopsies of people with a history of repetitive head injuries. That includes concussions and repeated smaller impacts that don’t immediately appear dangerous, as well as collisions between players that can cause a head to oscillate at rates quick enough to harm the brain. CTE, which is linked to dementia, has symptoms including memory loss, depression, problems with impulse control and suicidal tendencies. It’s a major issue for military veterans; dozens of U.S. soldiers suffered traumatic brain injuries from an Iranian missile strike in Baghdad in January 2020. There’s even evidence Alexander the Great was a victim.