The journal Neurology has released results from a study that revealed retired NFL athletes had a four-times higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease or ALS than the general population. According to researchers from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health in Cincinnati, players in “speed positions” such as wide receivers and running backs were even more likely to die from brain disorders. Everett J. Lehman, lead author of the study said, “these results are consistent with recent studies that suggest an increased risk of neurodegenerative disease among football players.” According to the study, NFL football players were also three times as likely as the general population to die of disorders that damage brain cells.
Just yesterday the NFL announced that it was donating $30 million for medical research to the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health. The money is to be used for research into brain injuries, as well as the management of concussions. The NFL currently has more than 2,000 lawsuits pending from former players seeking damages for head injuries. Greg Aiello, an NFL spokesman said, “today’s study underscores the continuing need to invest in research, education and advocacy, strengthen and enforce our rules on player safety and do all we can to make our game safer. We remain committed to doing all that we can.” New guidelines on head injuries were issued by the NFL in 2007, and last year the league instructed team doctors and trainers to evaluate players who suffered concussions during games……. bloomberg.com 9/8/12