Core Concepts
Young athletes, even at the amateur level, are at risk of developing CTE due to repetitive head impacts.
Abstract
The study on chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in young athletes reveals alarming statistics and implications for amateur sports participants.
Key Highlights:
- 41% of young athletes studied had CTE, with most having a mild form of the disease.
- Brain tissue analysis showed shrinkage and microscopic changes indicating a breach of the blood-brain barrier.
- The study identified the first American female athlete with CTE.
- Most athletes with CTE played at the amateur level in youth, high school, or college sports.
- The study emphasizes the importance of recognizing symptoms and providing proper care for young athletes.
Stats
"41% had the neurodegenerative disease, caused by repetitive head impacts (RHIs)."
"Donors died between the ages of 13 and 29 years, 92.8% were male and 73% were White."
"More than 95% had mild CTE."
"71.4% played amateur sports, including football (60.9%), soccer (17.2%), hockey (7.8%), and wrestling (7%)."
Quotes
"A lot of people think CTE is a result of high-level, professional play such as football, ice hockey, and boxing, but it can affect amateur athletes and can affect people at a young age." - Dr. Ann McKee