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A Neuroscientific Approach to the Examination of Concussions in Student-Athletes
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Concussion and long-term cognitive function among rugby players-The BRAIN Study.
Valentina Gallo1,2,3,4, Damien M McElvenny2,5,6, Giulia Seghezzo1
1Centre for Primary Care and Public Health, Queen Mary, University of London, London, UK.
Alzheimer'S & Dementia : the Journal of the Alzheimer'S Association
|October 20, 2021
Summary
Retired rugby players with concussions showed no overall cognitive decline. However, older players (80+) with multiple concussions experienced worse cognitive function, indicating an age-related impact.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Sports Medicine
- Gerontology
Background:
- Concussions are common in contact sports like rugby.
- Long-term cognitive effects of repeated head injuries are a growing concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between self-reported concussions and cognitive function in retired rugby players.
- To explore potential age-related differences in this association.
Main Methods:
- Recruited 146 former elite male rugby union players (50+ years) in England.
- Assessed concussion history using the BRAIN-Q tool.
- Measured cognitive function using the Preclinical Alzheimer Cognitive Composite (PACC) and analyzed data with linear regressions.
Main Results:
- No significant association was found between concussion history and PACC scores overall.
- A subgroup analysis revealed that participants aged 80+ with three or more concussions had significantly worse cognitive function compared to those without concussions.
- 79.5% of participants reported at least one rugby-related concussion.
Conclusions:
- While overall cognitive function in retired rugby players was not linked to concussion history, a significant age interaction was observed.
- Older participants (80+) with a history of multiple concussions demonstrated poorer cognitive performance, suggesting an age-dependent effect of head trauma.
