Here are five insights:
1. CTE is diagnosed based on autopsies revealing a specific distribution of tau proteins in the brain.
2. However, most people older than 30 years have tau proteins in the brain, and these proteins increase in prevalence with age.
3. Dr. Harbaugh argues there are many causes of deteriorating brain function other than head trauma, and experts shouldn’t view head trauma as the sole cause.
4. He also points out football does not necessarily present the most dangerous environment for head trauma, as bicycling causes the most concussions.
5. Dr. Harbaugh commented the threat of CTE associated with contact sports has been overstated, and as of now, no data shows an increased risk of degenerative brain disease with people playing high school football.
More articles on sports medicine:
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Dr. Linda Papa’s blood test could detect concussions — 5 points
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