At least 25% of former NFL players who died during 5-year period had CTE : NPR

Key Points:

• A new study published in The BMJ estimates that at least 25% of retired NFL players who died between 2016 and 2021 had chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease linked to repeated head trauma.
• The study analyzed death certificates and brain donations from over 1,700 deceased NFL players, finding that 93% of brains donated to the UNITE Brain Bank showed CTE, though this sample likely overrepresents symptomatic individuals.
• The true prevalence of CTE among former NFL players is estimated to lie between 25% and 97%, with the study highlighting the need for more research to understand CTE's relationship with dementia and symptoms in living players.
• Experts emphasize that treatable conditions like sleep apnea and high blood pressure can mimic CTE symptoms, urging living former players to seek medical evaluation rather than assume hopelessness due to CTE concerns.
• The NFL has implemented safety measures to reduce head injuries since most studied players competed before 2005, and the league states it remains committed to enhancing player health and safety through ongoing research and resources.