Former professional soccer players have a higher risk of dementia compared to the general population, despite having lower rates of modifiable dementia risk factors. A study in Scotland found that former soccer players had a 3.02 times greater risk of dementia over a 21-year period. The risk was linked to hypertension and depression among these athletes. Researchers pointed out that traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) may contribute to the increased risk of dementia in these athletes. Further research is needed to identify early signs of neurodegeneration in contact sport athletes and implement interventions to reduce dementia risk.
Source link
Risk for dementia higher among former professional footballers
