It’s important to note, though, that players with a history of depression, moodiness, or substance abuse were probably more likely to donate their brains, leading to selection bias.

The 2017 study also showed that 48 out of 53 people who had played football in college and 3 of 14 who had played football in high school had CTE. But the relationship between concussions and CTE is complex. It is widely believed that it’s the repeated minor blows to the head that occur regularly in football that pose the greatest risk to players, as opposed to just the violent collisions that can lead to concussions.

Work with the child’s coach to teach ways to lower the risk of getting a concussion.Emphasize the importance of reporting concussions and taking time to recover from one.Ensure that they are following the coach’s guidance for safety, as well as the rules of the sport.Tell children and teens that you expect them to practice good sportsmanship at all times.

It’s important to talk to your doctor or your child’s doctor about a recovery plan and when it is safe to return to play.