1
|
Grotewold N, Albin RL. Update: Protective and risk factors for Parkinson disease. Parkinsonism Relat Disord 2024; 125:107026. [PMID: 38879999 DOI: 10.1016/j.parkreldis.2024.107026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
We review the epidemiologic literature on potential protective and risk factors in Parkinson's Disease (PD). Prior research identified numerous possible protective and risk factors. Potential protective factors include tobacco abuse, physical activity, urate levels, NSAID use, calcium channel blocker use, statin use, and use of some α1-adrenergic antagonists. Some potential protective factors could be products of reverse causation, including increased serum urate, tobacco abuse, and coffee-tea-caffeine consumption. Potential risk factors include traumatic brain injury, pesticide exposure, organic solvent exposure, lead exposure, air pollution, Type 2 Diabetes, some dairy products, cardiovascular disease, and some infections including Hepatitis C, H. pylori, and COVID-19. Potential non-environmental risk factors include bipolar disorder, essential tremor, bullous pemphigoid, and inflammatory bowel disease. There is an inverse relationship with PD and risk of most cancers. Though many potential protective and risk factors for PD were identified, research has not yet led to unique, rigorous prevention trials or successful disease-modifying interventions. While efforts to reduce exposure to some industrial toxicants are well justified, PD incidence might be most effectively reduced by mitigation of risks, such as Type 2 Diabetes, air pollution, traumatic brain injury, or physical inactivity, that are general public health intervention targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikolas Grotewold
- Dept. of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Roger L Albin
- Dept. of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA; GRECC & Neurology Service, VAAAHS, Ann Arbor, MI, 48105, USA; University of Michigan Morris K. Udall Center of Excellence for Parkinson's Disease Research, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA; University of Michigan Parkinson's Foundation Research Center of Excellence, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Peek K, Ross A, Andersen TE, Meyer T, Dahlen S, Georgieva J, Williamson PR, Clarke M, Serner A. Heading in football: a systematic review of descriptors, definitions, and reporting methods used in heading incidence studies. SCI MED FOOTBALL 2024:1-18. [PMID: 38855969 DOI: 10.1080/24733938.2024.2362191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
The primary objective of this systematic review was to describe the number and type of heading descriptors used in all published studies which report on heading incidence in football. The secondary objective was to detail the data collection and reporting methods used in the included studies to present heading incidence data. Eligible studies were identified through searches of five electronic databases: Ovid MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science, using a combination of free-text keywords (inception to 12th September 2023). Manual searching of reference lists and retrieved systematic reviews was also performed. A descriptive overview and synthesis of the results is presented. From 1620 potentially eligible studies, 71 studies were included, with the following key findings: 1) only 61% of studies defined a header with even fewer (23%) providing an operational definition of a header within the methods; 2) important study and player demographic data including year and country were often not reported; 3) reported heading descriptors and their coding options varied greatly; 4) visual identification of headers was essential when inertial measurement units were used to collect heading incidence data; and 5) there was a lack of standardisation in the reporting methods used in heading incidence studies making comparison between studies challenging. To address these findings, the development of a standardised, internationally supported, operational definition of a header and related heading descriptors should be prioritised. Further recommendations include the development of minimum reporting criteria for heading incidence research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kerry Peek
- Sydney School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Andrew Ross
- Sydney School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Physiotherapy Department, College of Sport, Health and Engineering, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Thor Einar Andersen
- Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center, The Norwegian School of Sport Sciences, Oslo, Norway
- The Norwegian Football Association's Sports Medical Centre, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tim Meyer
- Institute of Sports and Preventive Medicine, Saarland University, Saarbrucken, Germany
| | - Sara Dahlen
- Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center, The Norwegian School of Sport Sciences, Oslo, Norway
| | - Julia Georgieva
- Curtin School of Allied Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Paula R Williamson
- Department of Health Data Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Mike Clarke
- Centre for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Andreas Serner
- FIFA Medical, Fédération Internationale de Football Association, Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Oesterschlink J, Reinsberger C. [Head injuries: What the team physician needs to know]. ORTHOPADIE (HEIDELBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 53:415-419. [PMID: 38740669 DOI: 10.1007/s00132-024-04507-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
A concussion is the mildest form of a mild traumatic brain injury (tbi) and resembles the most prevalent type of sports associated tbi. Diffuse axonal injuries, the main pathophysiological mechanism of concussion, leads to disruption of communication between different brain areas. The resulting clinical symptoms may relate to several clinical domains (cognition, fatigue, anxiety disorders, headaches/migraines or vestibulo-ocular problems), all of which need to be assessed in a clinical screening during an evaluation for possible concussion. Appropriate and consensus-based protocols to conduct clinical exams are provided by the Concussion in Sport Group (Sport Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT), Sport Concussion Office Assessment Tool (SCOAT)) and should be used in the most up-to-date version. Therapeutically, slowly and incrementally increasing sub symptomatic activation consisting of daily routine activities, aerobic and cognitive exercises should be introduced early after the trauma. Education about concussion should be geared towards target audiences and will then greatly contribute to adherence and acceptance of medical management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julian Oesterschlink
- Department Sport und Gesundheit, Sportmedizinisches Institut, Universität Paderborn, Warburger Straße 100, 33098, Paderborn, Deutschland
| | - Claus Reinsberger
- Department Sport und Gesundheit, Sportmedizinisches Institut, Universität Paderborn, Warburger Straße 100, 33098, Paderborn, Deutschland.
- Division of Sports Neurology and Neurosciences, Mass General Brigham, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Peek K, Franchi M, Lemmink K, Balsom P, Meyer T. Quality Criteria for Studies Assessing the Acute Effects of Heading: Results from a UEFA Expert Panel. Sports Med 2024; 54:1089-1095. [PMID: 38150166 PMCID: PMC11127840 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-023-01977-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
There is increasing concern regarding the effects of heading in football on brain health including cognitive, behavioural and neuromotor function, with research suggesting an association between repeated ball-head impacts and neurodegenerative disease. While longitudinal studies to determine the long-term consequences of heading are challenging, there have been short-term 'acute' studies conducted, with some studies lacking appropriate methodology to ensure valid results. The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) established a panel of experts to determine methodological recommendations for the conduct of studies that explore the acute effects of heading (defined as a single session of heading conducted either in a laboratory setting or following match play or a training session). The aim of this panel was to create quality criteria for acute heading studies that will form part of the eligibility assessment when applying for UEFA research funding (although the criteria can be applied to the conduct of acute heading research more widely). This process was deemed necessary to counter studies with poor methodological quality that used heading trials that did not accurately represent player exposure to ball-head impacts through football practice and match play (such as small sample sizes, unrealistically high heading exposure, and a lack of consideration of confounding variables). The panel identified core design decisions that authors should consider when designing and conducting acute heading research, with key methodological requirements for each domain pertaining to participants, heading trials, confounding variables, statistics and dependent/target variables and their measurement. After two rounds of reviews, the final list of quality criteria was agreed by the panel and will be applied to the next round of UEFA grant applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kerry Peek
- Discipline of Physiotherapy, Sydney School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Martino Franchi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Koen Lemmink
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Paul Balsom
- Swedish Football Association, Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tim Meyer
- Institute of Sports and Preventive Medicine, Saarland University, Saarland, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Walsh S, Wallace L, Kuhn I, Mytton O, Lafortune L, Wills W, Mukadam N, Brayne C. Population-level interventions for the primary prevention of dementia: a complex evidence review. EClinicalMedicine 2024; 70:102538. [PMID: 38495526 PMCID: PMC10940136 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2024.102538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Dementia risk reduction is a global public health priority. Existing primary prevention approaches have favored individual-level interventions, with a research and policy gap for population-level interventions. We conducted a complex, multi-stage, evidence review to identify empirical evidence on population-level interventions for each of the modifiable risk factors identified by the Lancet Commission on dementia (2020). Through a comprehensive series of targeted searches, we identified 4604 articles, of which 135 met our inclusion criteria. We synthesized evidence from multiple sources, including existing non-communicable disease prevention frameworks, and graded the consistency and comprehensiveness of evidence. We derived a population-level intervention framework for dementia risk reduction, containing 26 high- and moderate-confidence policy recommendations, supported by relevant information on effect sizes, sources of evidence, contextual information, and implementation guidance. This review provides policymakers with the evidence they need, in a useable format, to address this critical public health policy gap. Funding SW is funded by a National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Doctoral Fellowship. WW and LF are part funded by the NIHR Applied Research Collaboration East of England. The views expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the NIHR or the Department of Health and Social Care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Walsh
- Cambridge Public Health, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0SR, UK
| | - Lindsay Wallace
- Cambridge Public Health, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0SR, UK
| | - Isla Kuhn
- University of Cambridge Medical School Library, School of Clinical Medicine, Cambridge CB2 0SP, UK
| | - Oliver Mytton
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Louise Lafortune
- Cambridge Public Health, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0SR, UK
| | - Wendy Wills
- Centre for Research in Public Health and Community Care, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK
| | - Naaheed Mukadam
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London W1T 7BN, UK
| | - Carol Brayne
- Cambridge Public Health, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0SR, UK
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Malcolm D, Matthews CR, Wiltshire G. Concussion in sport: It's time to drop the tobacco analogy. J Sci Med Sport 2024; 27:220-221. [PMID: 38320904 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2024.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
|
7
|
Carmody S, Ranson J, Iqbal Z, Massey A, Kerkhoffs G, Gouttebarge V. Evaluation of a medical after-care intervention among deselected elite male Academy football players: a pilot study. BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med 2024; 10:e001891. [PMID: 38440745 PMCID: PMC10910530 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsem-2024-001891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This pilot study aimed to evaluate the perception and satisfaction of deselected male Academy professional footballers towards a medical after-care intervention. Methods A quasiexperimental study design, with deselected players (aged≥18 years) at a single Premier League Academy during the 2022/2023 season, were invited to participate. The intervention included individualised health recommendations, key medical information and signposting to key support resources. Participants' perceptions and satisfaction were assessed through an electronic survey. Descriptive analyses (mean, SD, frequency and/or range) were performed for all variables. Results Twelve out of 15 eligible participants (80% response rate) provided informed consent and completed the survey (mean age: 19.5 years). All (100%) of the participants were satisfied with receiving the medical information. Ten out of 12 (83.3%) participants agreed that all Academy players should receive this medical intervention on deselection. Nine (75%) players felt more prepared for the next steps in their careers due to the medical information shared with them. Conclusion Deselected male Academy footballers expressed high satisfaction with an individualised medical intervention which shared key health information and signposted them to important resources (eg, mental health). Future studies across multiple clubs should explore the broader impact of this intervention among deselected male and female Academy footballers. Football clubs should consider integrating a medical after-care process for deselected players as part of routine care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sean Carmody
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Medical Department, Crystal Palace Football Club, London, UK
| | - Joe Ranson
- Medical Department, Crystal Palace Football Club, London, UK
| | - Zafar Iqbal
- Medical Department, Crystal Palace Football Club, London, UK
| | | | - Gino Kerkhoffs
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Aging & Vitality, Musculoskeletal Health, Sports, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Collaboration on Health & Safety in Sports (ACHSS), IOC Research Center of Excellence, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Vincent Gouttebarge
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Aging & Vitality, Musculoskeletal Health, Sports, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Collaboration on Health & Safety in Sports (ACHSS), IOC Research Center of Excellence, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Section Sports Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Football Players Worldwide (FIFPRO), Hoofddorp, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Song H, Liu J, Wang L, Hu X, Li J, Zhu L, Pang R, Zhang A. Tauroursodeoxycholic acid: a bile acid that may be used for the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1348844. [PMID: 38440398 PMCID: PMC10909943 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1348844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disease that has become one of the main factors affecting human health. It has serious impacts on individuals, families, and society. With the development of population aging, the incidence of AD will further increase worldwide. Emerging evidence suggests that many physiological metabolic processes, such as lipid metabolism, are implicated in the pathogenesis of AD. Bile acids, as the main undertakers of lipid metabolism, play an important role in the occurrence and development of Alzheimer's disease. Tauroursodeoxycholic acid, an endogenous bile acid, has been proven to possess therapeutic effects in different neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease. This review tries to find the relationship between bile acid metabolism and AD, as well as explore the therapeutic potential of bile acid taurocursodeoxycholic acid for this disease. The potential mechanisms of taurocursodeoxycholic acid may include reducing the deposition of Amyloid-β protein, regulating apoptotic pathways, preventing tau hyperphosphorylation and aggregation, protecting neuronal synapses, exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, and improving metabolic disorders. The objective of this study is to shed light on the use of tauroursodeoxycholic acid preparations in the prevention and treatment of AD, with the aim of identifying effective treatment targets and clarifying various treatment mechanisms involved in this disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Honghu Song
- School of Health Preservation and Rehabilitation, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiancheng Liu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu, China
| | - Linjie Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaomin Hu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiayu Li
- School of Health Preservation and Rehabilitation, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu, China
| | - Li Zhu
- School of Health Preservation and Rehabilitation, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu, China
| | - Rizhao Pang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu, China
| | - Anren Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Silvestro S, Raffaele I, Quartarone A, Mazzon E. Innovative Insights into Traumatic Brain Injuries: Biomarkers and New Pharmacological Targets. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2372. [PMID: 38397046 PMCID: PMC10889179 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major health issue affecting many people across the world, causing significant morbidity and mortality. TBIs often have long-lasting effects, disrupting daily life and functionality. They cause two types of damage to the brain: primary and secondary. Secondary damage is particularly critical as it involves complex processes unfolding after the initial injury. These processes can lead to cell damage and death in the brain. Understanding how these processes damage the brain is crucial for finding new treatments. This review examines a wide range of literature from 2021 to 2023, focusing on biomarkers and molecular mechanisms in TBIs to pinpoint therapeutic advancements. Baseline levels of biomarkers, including neurofilament light chain (NF-L), ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase-L1 (UCH-L1), Tau, and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in TBI, have demonstrated prognostic value for cognitive outcomes, laying the groundwork for personalized treatment strategies. In terms of pharmacological progress, the most promising approaches currently target neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptotic mechanisms. Agents that can modulate these pathways offer the potential to reduce a TBI's impact and aid in neurological rehabilitation. Future research is poised to refine these therapeutic approaches, potentially revolutionizing TBI treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Emanuela Mazzon
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, Via Provinciale Palermo, SS 113, Contrada Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy; (S.S.); (I.R.); (A.Q.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
D'Souza S, Milne BJ, Li C, Anns F, Gardner A, Lumley T, Morton SMB, Murphy IR, Verhagen E, Wright C, Quarrie K. Kumanu Tāngata: the aftermatch study - protocol to examine the health outcomes of high-level male rugby union players using linked administrative data. BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med 2024; 10:e001795. [PMID: 38362564 PMCID: PMC10868174 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsem-2023-001795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
There is increasing interest in the potential long-term outcomes of participation in contact and collision sports, driven by evidence of higher rates of neurodegenerative diseases among former athletes. Recent research has capitalised on large-scale administrative health data to examine health outcomes in contact sport athletes. However, there is limited research on outcomes associated with participation in rugby union, a contact sport with a relatively high incidence of head trauma and musculoskeletal injuries. Additionally, there is scope to investigate a greater range of health outcomes using large, population-based administrative data. The Kumanu Tāngata project is a retrospective cohort study that will use linked information from the New Zealand Rugby Register and health records within a comprehensive deidentified whole-population administrative research database known as the Integrated Data Infrastructure. First-class male rugby union players (N=13 227) will be compared with a general population comparison group (N=2 438 484; weighting will be applied due to demographic differences) on a range of mortality and morbidity outcomes (neurodegenerative diseases, musculoskeletal conditions, chronic physical conditions, mental health outcomes). A range of player-specific variables will also be investigated as risk factors. Analyses will consist primarily of Cox proportional hazards models. Ethics approval for the study has been granted by the Auckland Health Research Ethics Committee (Ref. AH23203). Primary research dissemination will be via peer-reviewed journal articles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie D'Souza
- COMPASS Research Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- School of Social Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Barry J Milne
- COMPASS Research Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- School of Social Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Chao Li
- COMPASS Research Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Francesca Anns
- COMPASS Research Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- School of Psychology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Andrew Gardner
- Sydney School of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Thomas Lumley
- Department of Statistics, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Susan M B Morton
- Research Institute for Innovative Solutions for Well-being and Health (INSIGHT), University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ian R Murphy
- Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Evert Verhagen
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, EMGO, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Craig Wright
- Social Wellbeing Agency, Wellington, New Zealand
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Demetriades AK, Shah I, Marklund N, Clusmann H, Peul W. Sport-related concussion in soccer -a scoping review of available guidelines and a call for action to FIFA & soccer governing bodies. BRAIN & SPINE 2024; 4:102763. [PMID: 38510627 PMCID: PMC10951760 DOI: 10.1016/j.bas.2024.102763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Sport-related concussions (SRC) have been a concern in all sports, including soccer. The long-term effects of soccer-related head injuries are a public health concern. The Concussion in Sport Group (CISG) released a consensus statement in 2017 and several soccer governing associations have published their own SRC guidelines while referring to it but it is unclear whether this has been universally adopted. Research question We aimed to investigate whether guidelines published by soccer associations have any discrepancies; and the extent to which they follow the CISG recommendations. Materials and methods A scoping review of available soccer-specific SRC guidelines was performed via databases PubMed, Google Scholar, and official soccer association websites via web browser Google. The inclusion criteria were soccer-specific SRC guidelines. Comparisons between guidelines were made concerning the following index items: initial (on-site) assessment, removal from play, re-evaluation with neuroimaging, return-to-sport protocol, special populations, and education. Results Nine soccer associations with available guidelines were included in this review. Guidelines obtained were from official associations in the United Kingdom, United States of America, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. When compared to each other and the CISG recommendations, discrepancies were found within guidelines regarding the index items. Additionally, major soccer associations in some countries famous for soccer were found to have not published any publicly available guidelines. Discussion and conclusion SRC guidelines from different soccer associations contain discrepancies which may be detrimental to athletes, both short and long-term. We recommend that all major soccer governing associations publish guidelines that are standardised and accessible to all athletes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas K. Demetriades
- Leiden University Neurosurgical Center Holland, HMC-HAGA the Hague & LUMC Leiden, Netherlands
- Department of Neurosurgery, Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Imran Shah
- Department of Neurosurgery, Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Niklas Marklund
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Neurosurgery, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Neurosurgery, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Hans Clusmann
- Department of Neurosurgery, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Wilco Peul
- Leiden University Neurosurgical Center Holland, HMC-HAGA the Hague & LUMC Leiden, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Georgieva J, Arnold EJ, Peek K, Smith A, Lavender AP, Serner A, Fitzgerald M, Ma'ayah F, Campbell A. The incidence and characteristics of heading in the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup™. SCI MED FOOTBALL 2024:1-8. [PMID: 38293754 DOI: 10.1080/24733938.2024.2305396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To quantify the incidence and characteristics of purposeful heading and other head impacts in professional women's football at the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup™. METHODS This cross-sectional cohort study analysed purposeful headers (uncontested and contested) and their characteristics (e.g. playing position, match situation, field location, and distance ball travelled), and other head impact events using video analysis. Total headers and head impact events, and incidence rate (IR) per 1000 match-hours were calculated for countries, positions, and other characteristics, such as location on the pitch. RESULTS Purposeful headers accounted for 76% of all coded events (uncontested: 71%; contested: 29%), followed by attempted headers (21%), unintentional ball-head impacts (2%), and other head impacts (1%). Headers ranged from 0 to 22 per player, per match with a mean of 4.8 [±1.2]. Of all field positions, centrebacks had the highest heading rates and wingers the lowest. Strikers performed significantly more contested headers than any other position, and significantly less uncontested headers. Most headers occurred in the middle third (48%), from free game play (72%) and from long balls (>20 m) (68%). CONCLUSION The findings of this study could assist the development of player heading risk profiles, sex-specific heading guidelines, and coaching practices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Georgieva
- Curtin School of Allied Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Eloise J Arnold
- Curtin School of Allied Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Kerry Peek
- Sydney School of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Anne Smith
- Curtin School of Allied Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
- enAble Institute for Health Science, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Andrew P Lavender
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Federation University, Ballarat, VIC, Australia
| | - Andreas Serner
- FIFA Medical, Fédération Internationale de Football Association, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Melinda Fitzgerald
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Fadi Ma'ayah
- School of Education, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Amity Campbell
- Curtin School of Allied Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
- enAble Institute for Health Science, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Batty GD, Bell S, Kujala UM, Sarna SJ, Kaprio J. Dementia risk factors in former contact sports participants: prospective cohort study. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2024.01.15.24301327. [PMID: 38293048 PMCID: PMC10827262 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.15.24301327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Background The elevated dementia incidence in retired contact sport participants might be explained by a higher prevalence of established risk factors for the disease relative to the general population. Methods In this cohort study, former elite participants active between 1920 and 1965 in soccer (N=303), boxing (N=281), and wrestling (N=318) were recruited using sports yearbooks and records of sports associations. Men in a population control group were identified using records from a compulsory medical examination (N=1712). All study members were linked to hospital registers (1970-2015) and self-completion questionnaires were circulated (1985, 1995) from which we captured data on nine established risk factors for dementia: hypertension and diabetes status, alcohol intake, loneliness, depressive symptoms, cigarette smoking, body weight, educational attainment, and physical activity. Results There was little suggestion that former participants in contact sports had a higher prevalence of dementia risk factors relative to the general population. Rather, the balance of evidence was for more favourable risk factor levels in former athletes, as was particularly evident for ever having smoked cigarettes (range in odds ratios [95% confidence interval]: 0.32 [0.21, 0.48] for wrestling to 0.52 [0.36, 0.75] for soccer) and leisure-time physical activity (range in beta coefficients [95% confidence interval]: 1.34 [0.66, 2.02] for soccer to 1.80 [1.07, 2.52] for boxing). Conclusions The increased dementia rates in retired contact sport participants evident in epidemiological studies is unlikely to be explained by the risk factors examined here. This implicates other characteristics of contact sports, including a history of repeated head impact.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G David Batty
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Steven Bell
- Precision Breast Cancer Institute, Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Centre, Li Ka Shing Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Urho M Kujala
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Seppo J Sarna
- Department of Public Health, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jaakko Kaprio
- Institute for Molecular Medicine FIMM, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
El-Menyar A, Al-Thani H, Mansour MF. Dementia and traumatic brain injuries: underestimated bidirectional disorder. Front Neurol 2024; 14:1340709. [PMID: 38259659 PMCID: PMC10801033 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1340709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ayman El-Menyar
- Clinical Research, Trauma and Vascular Surgery, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Weill Cornell Medical School, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hassan Al-Thani
- Trauma and Vascular Surgery, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Kader M, Pasternak B, Lim CE, Neovius M, Forssblad M, Svanström H, Ludvigsson JF, Ueda P. Depression and anxiety-related disorders and suicide among Swedish male elite football players: a nationwide cohort study. Br J Sports Med 2024; 58:66-72. [PMID: 37857446 PMCID: PMC10804025 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2023-107286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess whether male elite football players, during and after their active career, were at increased risk of depression and anxiety-related disorders and suicide, as compared with the general male population. METHODS We included male football players active in the Swedish top division 1924-2019 and general male population (matched to football players based on age and region of residence) aged <65 years in 1997. Using nationwide registers, we followed the football players from their first season in the top division (or the date of their first registered residency in Sweden) or 1 January 1997, and compared the risk of depression and anxiety-related disorders (captured through diagnoses from hospital admissions and outpatient visits, and use of prescription drugs) among football players versus controls. In a secondary analysis using data from death certificates, we compared the risk of suicide between football players and general population males who were alive in 1969 (when cause of death became available) . RESULTS During follow-up through 31 December 2020, 504 (13.6%) of 3719 football players and 7455 (22.3%) of 33 425 general population males had a depression or anxiety-related disorder. In analyses accounting for age, region of residence and calendar time, the risk of anxiety and depression-related disorders was lower among football players versus general population males (HR 0.61, 95% CI 0.55 to 0.66). The protective association was attenuated with increasing age, and from around age 70 years the risk was similar in the two groups. The risk of suicide was lower among football players versus general population males (HR 0.48, 95% CI 0.32 to 0.72). CONCLUSIONS In this nationwide cohort study in Sweden, elite male football players had a lower risk of depression and anxiety-related disorders and suicide as compared with the general population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manzur Kader
- Clinical Epidemiology Division, Department of Medicine, Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Björn Pasternak
- Clinical Epidemiology Division, Department of Medicine, Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Epidemiology Research, Statens Serum Institut, Kobenhavn, Denmark
| | - Carl-Emil Lim
- Clinical Epidemiology Division, Department of Medicine, Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Martin Neovius
- Clinical Epidemiology Division, Department of Medicine, Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Magnus Forssblad
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Stockholm Sports Trauma Research Center, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Henrik Svanström
- Clinical Epidemiology Division, Department of Medicine, Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Epidemiology Research, Statens Serum Institut, Kobenhavn, Denmark
| | - Jonas F Ludvigsson
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Pediatrics, Örebro University Hospital, Orebro, Sweden
| | - Peter Ueda
- Clinical Epidemiology Division, Department of Medicine, Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Hageman G, Hageman I, Nihom J. Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy in Soccer Players: Review of 14 Cases. Clin J Sport Med 2024; 34:69-80. [PMID: 37403989 DOI: 10.1097/jsm.0000000000001174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Exposure to repetitive sports-related concussions or (sub)concussive head trauma may lead to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Which impact (heading or concussion) poses the greatest risk of CTE development in soccer players? DESIGN Narrative review. SETTING Teaching hospital and University of Applied sciences. PATIENTS A literature search (PubMed) was conducted for neuropathologic studies in the period 2005-December 2022, investigating soccer players with dementia and a CTE diagnosis, limited to English language publications. 210 papers were selected for final inclusion, of which 7 papers described 14 soccer players. ASSESSMENT Magnetic resonance imaging studies in soccer players show that lifetime estimates of heading numbers are inversely correlated with cortical thickness, grey matter volume, and density of the anterior temporal cortex. Using diffusion tensor imaging-magnetic resonance imaging, higher frequency of headings-particularly with rotational accelerations-are associated with impaired white matter integrity. Serum neurofilament light protein is elevated after heading. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Chronic traumatic encephalopathy pathology, history of concussion, heading frequency. RESULTS In 10 of 14 soccer players, CTE was the primary diagnosis. In 4 cases, other dementia types formed the primary diagnosis and CTE pathology was a concomitant finding. Remarkably, 6 of the 14 cases had no history of concussion, suggesting that frequent heading may be a risk for CTE in patients without symptomatic concussion. Rule changes in heading duels, management of concussion during the game, and limiting the number of high force headers during training are discussed. CONCLUSIONS Data suggest that heading frequency and concussions are associated with higher risk of developing CTE in (retired) soccer players. However based on this review of only 14 players, questions persist as to whether or not heading is a risk factor for CTE or long-term cognitive decline.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gerard Hageman
- Department of Neurology, Medisch Spectrum Twente, Hospital Enschede, Enschede, the Netherlands; and
| | - Ivar Hageman
- Saxion University of Applied Sciences, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Jik Nihom
- Department of Neurology, Medisch Spectrum Twente, Hospital Enschede, Enschede, the Netherlands; and
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Pedrosa M, Martins B, Araújo R. It's in the game: A review of neurological lesions associated with sports. J Neurol Sci 2023; 455:122803. [PMID: 37995461 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2023.122803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The practice of sports may lead to neurological injuries. While relatively uncommon (overall incidence of approximately 2.5%), and mostly benign and transient, some conditions may be life-threatening and permanent. Thus, both clinical neurologists and sports physicians should be aware of their existence and relevance. We aimed to review all sports-related neurological injuries and illnesses reported in the literature. METHODS Following SANRA guidelines, we performed a narrative review and searched PubMed and Scopus databases. Relevant sports were selected based on their recognition as an Olympic sport by the International Olympic Committee. Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) and other neurodegenerative disorders were not included. RESULTS A total of 292 studies were included concerning 33 different sports. The most reported neurological injury was damage to the peripheral nervous system. Traumatic injuries have also been extensively reported, including cerebral haemorrhage and arterial dissections. Non-traumatic life-threatening events are infrequent but may also occur, e.g. posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome, cerebral venous thrombosis, and arterial dissections. Some conditions were predominantly reported in specific sports, e.g. yips in baseball and golf, raising the possibility of a common pathophysiology. Spinal cord infarction due to fibrocartilaginous embolism was reported in several sports associated with minor trauma. CONCLUSION Sports-related neurological injuries are increasingly receiving more social and medical attention and are an important cause of morbidity and mortality. This review may serve as a guide to physicians managing these challenging situations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Bárbara Martins
- Neurology Department, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, E.P.E., Porto, Portugal; Clinical Neuroscience and Mental Health Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Rui Araújo
- Neurology Department, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, E.P.E., Porto, Portugal; Clinical Neuroscience and Mental Health Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Zhang X, Li Q, Cong W, Mu S, Zhan R, Zhong S, Zhao M, Zhao C, Kang K, Zhou Z. Effect of physical activity on risk of Alzheimer's disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis of twenty-nine prospective cohort studies. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 92:102127. [PMID: 37979700 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.102127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Physical activity (PA) is beneficial in reductions of all-cause mortality and dementia. However, whether Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk is modified by PA remains disputable. This meta-analysis aims to disclose the underlying relationship between PA and incident AD. METHODS Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were retrieved from inception to June 2023. Random-effects models were employed to derive the effect size, represented by hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS Twenty-nine prospective cohort studies involving 2068,519 participants were included. The pooled estimate showed a favorable effect of PA on AD risk decline (HR 0.72, 95% CI 0.65-0.80). This association remained robust after adjusting for maximum confounders (HR 0.85, 95% CI 0.79-0.91). Subgroup analysis of PA intensity demonstrated an inverse dose-response relationship between PA and AD, effect sizes of which were significant in moderate (HR 0.85, 95% CI 0.80-0.93) and high PA (HR 0.56, 95% CI 0.45-0.68), but not in low PA (HR 0.94, 95% CI 0.77-1.15). Regardless of all participants or the mid-life cohort, the protection of PA against AD appeared to be valid in shorter follow-up (<15 years) rather than longer follow-up (≥15 years). In addition to follow-up, the robustness of the estimates persisted in supplementary meta-analyses, meta-regression analyses, and sensitivity analyses. CONCLUSION PA intervention reduces the incidence of AD, but merely in moderate to vigorous PA with follow-up of less than 15 years, thus conditionally recommending the popularization of PA as a modifiable lifestyle factor to prevent AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqian Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Qu Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Wenqiang Cong
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Siyu Mu
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Rui Zhan
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Shanshan Zhong
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Mei Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, The Shengjing Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Chuansheng Zhao
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Kexin Kang
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, Liaoning, PR China.
| | - Zhike Zhou
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, Liaoning, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Brett BL, Cohen AD, McCrea MA, Wang Y. Longitudinal alterations in cerebral perfusion following a season of adolescent contact sport participation compared to non-contact athletes. Neuroimage Clin 2023; 40:103538. [PMID: 37956583 PMCID: PMC10666028 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2023.103538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cerebral blood flow (CBF) change, a non-invasive marker of head injury, has yet to be thoroughly investigated as a potential consequence of repetitive head impacts (RHI) via contact sport participation in youth athletes. We examined pre-to post-season differences in relative CBF (rCBF), arterial transit time (ATT), and neurocognition between adolescent contact sport (CS; 79.4% of which were football players) and non-contact sport (NCS) athletes. METHODS Adolescent athletes (N = 57; age = 14.70 ± 1.97) completed pre- and post-season clinical assessments and neuroimaging. Brain perfusion was evaluated using an advanced 3D pseudo-continuous ASL sequence with Hadamard encoded multiple post-labeling delays. Mixed-effect models tested group-by-time interactions for rCBF, ATT, and neurocognition. RESULTS A significant group-by-time interaction was observed for rCBF in a cluster consisting primarily of frontal and parietal lobe regions, with regional rCBF increasing in CS and decreasing among NCS athletes. No significant interaction was observed for ATT. A significant group-by-time interaction was observed for verbal memory and visual motor speed, with NCS athletes improving and CS athletes exhibiting lower performance from pre-to post-season in comparison. CONCLUSIONS Alterations in rCBF and variability in cognition, not purported neurovasculature changes (measured by ATT), were observed following one season of CS participation. Further study surrounding the clinical meaningfulness of these findings, as they related to adverse long-term outcomes, is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin L Brett
- Medical College of Wisconsin, Department of Neurosurgery, United States.
| | - Alex D Cohen
- Medical College of Wisconsin, Department of Radiology, United States
| | - Michael A McCrea
- Medical College of Wisconsin, Department of Neurosurgery, United States
| | - Yang Wang
- Medical College of Wisconsin, Department of Radiology, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Demetriades AK, Musko P, Shah I. Comment on: "Where are We Headed? Evidence to Inform Future Football Heading Guidelines.". Sports Med 2023:10.1007/s40279-023-01956-4. [PMID: 37930515 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-023-01956-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas K Demetriades
- Edinburgh Medical School, College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
- Department of Neurosurgery, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
- Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Patryk Musko
- Edinburgh Medical School, College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Imran Shah
- Edinburgh Medical School, College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Malcolm D. Some problems of research exploring sex differences in sport-related concussions: a narrative review. Res Sports Med 2023:1-10. [PMID: 37856512 DOI: 10.1080/15438627.2023.2271604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
This narrative review scrutinizes research exploring sex-based differences in experiences of sport-related concussion. The article argues that the limitations of epidemiological studies identifying the greater incidence and severity of concussion among females require that these findings are read with caution. It secondly argues that the dominant explanations for these data are based on and extend historical tendencies to "other" female participation in sport and construct male experiences as the "norm". Finally, the article critiques policy recommendations related to these research findings, arguing that they are likely to embed rather than challenge sex inequality in sport, and that they are both impractical and unethical. While this commentary builds on a broader body of work advocating greater sex/gender equality in sports science research, the prominence of social concerns about concussions in sport makes the broader implications of the focus on sex and sport-related concussion particularly problematic and thus in need of redress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dominic Malcolm
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Roig-Uribe M, Serradell M, Muñoz-Lopetegi A, Gaig C, Iranzo A. Prior exposure to concussions in patients with isolated REM sleep behavior disorder. Sleep Med 2023; 110:254-257. [PMID: 37660513 DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2023.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Traumatic brain injury is associated with the late development of neurodegenerative diseases such as the synucleinopathies. Isolated REM sleep behavior disorder (IRBD) constitutes an early manifestation of the synucleinopathies. We assessed whether lifetime history of concussive episodes is common in IRBD and examined its characteristics and clinical significance. METHODS Prior exposure to concussions was evaluated by interviewing polysomnographically-confirmed IRBD patients and controls without IRBD, and by the BRAIN-Q questionnaire. RESULTS We recruited 199 IRBD patients aged 73.2 ± 7.7 years and 168 age and sex matched controls. Previous history of concussion was more common in patients than in controls (21.1% versus 10.1%, p = 0.004). In patients, concussions occurred at the age of 24.7 ± 20.6 years. The interval between concussion and IRBD diagnosis was 43.0 ± 19.0 years. There were no differences between patients and controls in the causes of concussions (e.g., traffic accidents, sport practice), and number of events resulting in skull fractures, urgent medical assistance, and hospitalization. After a follow-up of 5.7 ± 4.7 years from IRBD diagnosis, 21.1% patients developed an overt synucleinopathy with an interval of 49.3 ± 24.2 years between concussion and synucleinopathy diagnosis. The risk to develop a synucleinopathy was similar between patients with and without concussions (p = 0.57). CONCLUSIONS Previous history of concussion is common in IRBD. Our observations may suggest that in individuals with increased susceptibility, early-life concussions may trigger a slow neurodegenerative process leading four decades later to IRBD. This study highlights the need for head injury prevention, particularly in early life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Roig-Uribe
- Sleep Disorders Center, Neurology Service, Hospital Clínic Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, IDIBAPS, CIBERNED: CB06/05/0018-ISCIII, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mònica Serradell
- Sleep Disorders Center, Neurology Service, Hospital Clínic Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, IDIBAPS, CIBERNED: CB06/05/0018-ISCIII, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Amaia Muñoz-Lopetegi
- Sleep Disorders Center, Neurology Service, Hospital Clínic Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, IDIBAPS, CIBERNED: CB06/05/0018-ISCIII, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carles Gaig
- Sleep Disorders Center, Neurology Service, Hospital Clínic Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, IDIBAPS, CIBERNED: CB06/05/0018-ISCIII, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alex Iranzo
- Sleep Disorders Center, Neurology Service, Hospital Clínic Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, IDIBAPS, CIBERNED: CB06/05/0018-ISCIII, Barcelona, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Basinas I, McElvenny DM, Brooker F, Robertson S, van Hoecke Y, Kemp S, Pearce N, Gallo V, Cherrie JW. Exposure assessment for repeated sub-concussive head impacts in soccer: The HEalth and Ageing Data IN the Game of football (HEADING) study. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2023; 253:114235. [PMID: 37552911 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2023.114235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this paper was to develop exposure estimates for repetitive sub-concussive head impacts (RSHI) for use in epidemiological analyses. We used a questionnaire to collect lifetime history of heading and other head contacts associated with training and playing football from 159 former footballers all members of the English professional football association. We used linear mixed effect regression with player as the random effect, to model the number of headers, blows to the head and head-to-head impacts as a function of potential exposure affecting factors, which were treated as the fixed effects. Exposure affecting factors included playing position, league, context of play (game vs training) and decade of play. Age at time of response to the questionnaire was also included in the models. In model results, playing position was important, with RSHIs being highest among defenders and lowest among goalkeepers. Players headed the ball more during games than in training, and when playing in amateur or youth leagues compared with semi-professional or professional leagues. The average number of reported head impacts declined linearly throughout the observation period (1949-2015). The derived final model for headers explained 43%, 9% and 36% of the between player, within player and total variance in exposure, respectively with good precision and predictive performance. These findings are generally in agreement with previously published results pointing towards the models forming a valid method for estimating exposure to RSHI among former footballers although some further external validation is still warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Basinas
- Center for Occupational and Environmental Health, Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Research Group, Institute of Occupational Medicine, Edinburgh, UK.
| | - Damien M McElvenny
- Center for Occupational and Environmental Health, Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Research Group, Institute of Occupational Medicine, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Finley Brooker
- Research Group, Institute of Occupational Medicine, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Steven Robertson
- Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Yvonne van Hoecke
- Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Simon Kemp
- Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Rugby Football Union, London, UK
| | - Neil Pearce
- Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Valentina Gallo
- Department of Sustainable Health, Campus Fryslan, University of Groningen, Leeuwarden, the Netherlands
| | - John W Cherrie
- Research Group, Institute of Occupational Medicine, Edinburgh, UK; School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot Watt University, Edinburgh, UK
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Ueda P. Cognitive Function and Heading Frequency Among Retired Professional Soccer Players-Heading for Clarity? JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2324368. [PMID: 37459102 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.24368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Ueda
- Clinical Epidemiology Division, Department of Medicine, Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Espahbodi S, Hogervorst E, Macnab TMP, Thanoon A, Fernandes GS, Millar B, Duncan A, Goodwin M, Batt M, Fuller CW, Fuller G, Ferguson E, Bast T, Doherty M, Zhang W. Heading Frequency and Risk of Cognitive Impairment in Retired Male Professional Soccer Players. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2323822. [PMID: 37459095 PMCID: PMC10352859 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.23822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance Although professional soccer players appear to be at higher risk of neurodegenerative disease, the reason remains unknown. Objective To examine whether heading frequency is associated with risk of cognitive impairment in retired professional soccer players. Design, Setting, and Participants A UK nationwide cross-sectional study was conducted between August 15, 2020, and December 31, 2021, in 459 retired male professional soccer players older than 45 years and registered with the Professional Footballers' Association or a League Club Players' Association. Exposure Data on heading frequency in 3 bands-0 to 5, 6 to 15, and more than 15 times per match or training session and other soccer-specific risk factors, such as player position and concussion-were collected through a self-reported questionnaire. Main Outcomes and Measures Cognitive impairment was defined using the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status-modified as scores of less than or equal to 21. Hopkins Verbal Learning Test, verbal fluency, and independent activities of daily living were also assessed. Test Your Memory and physician-diagnosed dementia/Alzheimer disease were self-reported via the questionnaire. Adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% CIs were calculated. Results Of 468 retired male professional soccer players who completed questionnaires (mean [SD] age, 63.68 [10.48]; body mass index, 27.22 [2.89]), 459 reported heading frequency: 114 headed 0 to 5 times, 185 headed 6 to 15 times, 160 headed more than 15 times per match, and 125 headed 0 to 5 times, 174 headed 6 to 15 times, and 160 headed more than 15 times per training session during their careers. The prevalence of cognitive impairment was 9.78% (0-5 times), 14.78% (6-15 times), and 15.20% (>15 times) per match (P = .51). Compared with players reporting 0 to 5 headers per match, the AORs were 2.71 (95% CI, 0.89-8.25) for players reporting 6 to 15 headers per match and 3.53 (95% CI, 1.13-11.04) for players reporting more than 15 headers per match (P = .03 for trend). Corresponding AORs for heading frequency per training session were 2.38 (95% CI, 0.82-6.95) for those reporting 6 to 15, and 3.40 (95% CI, 1.13-10.23) for those reporting more than 15 in comparison with those who reported 0 to 5 (P = .03 for trend). Concussion involving memory loss was also associated with a greater risk of cognitive impairment (AOR, 3.16; 95% CI, 1.08-9.22). Similar results were observed with other cognitive tests and self-reported physician-diagnosed dementia/Alzheimer disease. Conclusions and Relevance The findings of this study suggest that repetitive heading during a professional soccer career is associated with an increased risk of cognitive impairment in later life. Further study is needed to establish the upper threshold for heading frequency to mitigate this risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shima Espahbodi
- Academic Unit of Injury, Recovery and Inflammation Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Osteoarthritis Research Versus Arthritis, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Pain Centre Versus Arthritis, Academic Rheumatology, City Hospital, Nottingham, UK
| | - Eef Hogervorst
- NCSEM, School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Tara-Mei Povall Macnab
- Academic Unit of Injury, Recovery and Inflammation Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Pain Centre Versus Arthritis, Academic Rheumatology, City Hospital, Nottingham, UK
| | - Ahmed Thanoon
- Academic Unit of Injury, Recovery and Inflammation Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Osteoarthritis Research Versus Arthritis, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Pain Centre Versus Arthritis, Academic Rheumatology, City Hospital, Nottingham, UK
| | - Gwen Sacha Fernandes
- Academic Unit of Injury, Recovery and Inflammation Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Population Health Science, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Bonnie Millar
- Academic Unit of Injury, Recovery and Inflammation Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Pain Centre Versus Arthritis, Academic Rheumatology, City Hospital, Nottingham, UK
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Ashley Duncan
- National Institute for Health Research ARC EM, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Maria Goodwin
- NCSEM, School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Mark Batt
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Osteoarthritis Research Versus Arthritis, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | | | - Gordon Fuller
- Centre for Urgent and Emergency Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Eamonn Ferguson
- Pain Centre Versus Arthritis, Academic Rheumatology, City Hospital, Nottingham, UK
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- School of Psychology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Blood and Transplant Research Unit in Donor Health and Behaviour, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Tobias Bast
- Pain Centre Versus Arthritis, Academic Rheumatology, City Hospital, Nottingham, UK
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- School of Psychology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Neuroscience@Nottingham, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Michael Doherty
- Academic Unit of Injury, Recovery and Inflammation Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Osteoarthritis Research Versus Arthritis, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Pain Centre Versus Arthritis, Academic Rheumatology, City Hospital, Nottingham, UK
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Weiya Zhang
- Academic Unit of Injury, Recovery and Inflammation Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Osteoarthritis Research Versus Arthritis, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Pain Centre Versus Arthritis, Academic Rheumatology, City Hospital, Nottingham, UK
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Uzoigwe CE, Bin Qadir RMA. Football and dementia: looking at other factors. Lancet Public Health 2023; 8:e482. [PMID: 37393086 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-2667(23)00103-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
|
27
|
Batty GD, Frank P, Kujala UM, Sarna SJ, Valencia-Hernández CA, Kaprio J. Dementia in former amateur and professional contact sports participants: population-based cohort study, systematic review, and meta-analysis. EClinicalMedicine 2023; 61:102056. [PMID: 37425375 PMCID: PMC10329127 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2023.102056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Although there is growing evidence that former professional athletes from sports characterised by repetitive head impact subsequently experience an elevated risk of dementia, the occurrence of this disorder in retired amateurs, who represent a larger population, is uncertain. The present meta-analysis integrates new results from individual-participant analyses of a cohort study of former amateur contact sports participants into a systematic review of existing studies of retired professionals and amateurs. Methods The cohort study comprised 2005 male retired amateur athletes who had competed internationally for Finland (1920-1965) and a general population comparison group of 1386 age-equivalent men. Dementia occurrence was ascertained from linked national mortality and hospital records. For the PROSPERO-registered (CRD42022352780) systematic review, we searched PubMed and Embase from their inception to April 2023, including cohort studies published in English that reported standard estimates of association and variance. Study-specific estimates were aggregated using random-effect meta-analysis. An adapted Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool was used to assess study quality. Findings In the cohort study, up to 46 years of health surveillance of 3391 men gave rise to 406 dementia cases (265 Alzheimer's disease). After adjustment for covariates, former boxers experienced elevated rates of dementia (hazard ratio: 3.60 [95% CI 2.46, 5.28]) and Alzheimer's disease (4.10 [2.55, 6.61]) relative to general population controls. Associations were of lower magnitude in retired wrestlers (dementia: 1.51 [0.98, 2.34]; Alzheimer's disease: 2.11 [1.28, 3.48]) and soccer players (dementia: 1.55 [1.00, 2.41]; Alzheimer's disease: 2.07 [1.23, 3.46]), with some estimates including unity. The systematic review identified 827 potentially eligible published articles, of which 9 met our inclusion criteria. These few retrieved studies all sampled men and the majority were of moderate quality. In sport-specific analyses according to playing level, there was a marked difference in dementia rates in onetime professional American football players (2 studies; summary risk ratio: 2.96 [95% CI 1.66, 5.30]) relative to amateurs in whom there was no suggestion of an association (2 studies; 0.90 [0.52, 1.56]). For soccer players, while dementia occurrence was raised in both erstwhile professionals (2 studies; 3.61 [2.92, 4.45]) and amateurs (1 study; 1.60 [1.11, 2.30]) there was again a suggestion of a risk differential. The only studies of boxers comprised former amateurs in whom there was a tripling in the rates of dementia (2 studies; 3.14 [95% CI 1.72, 5.74]) and Alzheimer's disease (2 studies; 3.07 [1.01, 9.38]) at follow-up compared to controls. Interpretation Based on a small number of studies exclusively sampling men, former amateur participants in soccer, boxing, and wrestling appeared to experience an elevated risk of dementia relative to the general population. Where data allowed comparison, there was a suggestion that risks were greater amongst retired professionals relative to amateurs in the sports of soccer and American football. Whether these findings are generalisable to the contact sports not featured, and to women, warrants examination. Funding This work was unfunded.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G. David Batty
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Philipp Frank
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Urho M. Kujala
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Seppo J. Sarna
- Department of Public Health, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Jaakko Kaprio
- Institute for Molecular Medicine FIMM, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Ueda P, Pasternak B, Lim CE, Neovius M, Ludvigsson JF, Svanström H. Football and dementia: looking at other factors - Authors' reply. Lancet Public Health 2023; 8:e483. [PMID: 37393087 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-2667(23)00104-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Ueda
- Clinical Epidemiology Division, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 17176, Sweden.
| | - Björn Pasternak
- Clinical Epidemiology Division, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 17176, Sweden; Department of Epidemiology Research, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Carl-Emil Lim
- Clinical Epidemiology Division, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 17176, Sweden
| | - Martin Neovius
- Clinical Epidemiology Division, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 17176, Sweden
| | - Jonas F Ludvigsson
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Pediatrics, Örebro University Hospital, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Henrik Svanström
- Clinical Epidemiology Division, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 17176, Sweden; Department of Epidemiology Research, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Mahase E. Male footballers are 50% more likely to develop neurodegenerative disease, finds Swedish study. BMJ 2023; 380:641. [PMID: 36931636 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.p641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2023]
|
30
|
Parr JVV, Uiga L, Marshall B, Wood G. Soccer heading immediately alters brain function and brain-muscle communication. Front Hum Neurosci 2023; 17:1145700. [PMID: 37151902 PMCID: PMC10157247 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2023.1145700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction There is growing evidence of a link between repetitive soccer heading and the increased incidence of neurodegenerative disease. Even a short bout of soccer heading has been shown to impair cognitive performance and disrupt movement control. However, a greater understanding of the mechanisms behind these immediate impairments is needed. The current study attempted to identify how a short bout of soccer heading alters brain function and brain-muscle communication during a movement task. Methods Sixty soccer players were exposed to either an acute bout (i.e., 20 balls thrown underarm) of soccer heading (n = 30) or a control condition where participants (n = 30) headed soccer balls in virtual reality (VR). Before and after heading, we measured cognitive performance on the King-Devick test, as well as electromyography (EMG), electroencephalography (EEG) and brain-muscle communication (i.e., corticomuscular coherence; CMC) during a force precision task. Results Following the heading protocol, the VR group improved their cognitive performance whereas the Heading group showed no change. Both groups displayed more precise force contractions at post-test. However, the VR group displayed elevated frontal theta activity and global increases in alpha and beta activity during the contraction task, whereas the Heading group did not. Contrary to our expectations, the Heading group displayed elevated CMC, whereas the VR group showed no change. Discussion Our findings indicate a short bout of soccer heading may impair cognitive function and disrupt the organization of efficient neural processes that typically accompany motor skill proficiency. Soccer heading also induced corticomuscular hyperconnectivity, which could represent compensatory brain-muscle communication and an inefficient allocation of increased task-related neuromuscular resources. These initial findings offer insights to the mechanisms behind the impairments experienced after a short bout of repetitive soccer heading.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johnny V. V. Parr
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Institute of Sport, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Johnny V. V. Parr,
| | - Liis Uiga
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Institute of Sport, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Ben Marshall
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Institute of Sport, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Greg Wood
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Institute of Sport, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|