Scientists have explained the connection between regular football playing and the development of dementia

There are examples in history

A new study has found that playing football regularly for just two years can lead to deterioration in memory and thinking skills. 148 amateur players took part in the tests. The study was conducted twice: once at the beginning and again two years later. Several athletes have been diagnosed with chronic traumatic encephalopathy.

Concerns about the impact that head impacts can have on players recently led the FA to initiate proceedings to ban under-12 players. At the same time, Scotland introduced rules regarding headings the day before and after games.

Scientists studied brain changes in 148 recreational players over two years using brain scans, as well as performance on memory and learning tasks.

The tests were carried out twice – once at the beginning of the study and once two years later. Several players who have used headbutts in the game over the years have been diagnosed with chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). This brain disease eventually leads to dementia. Symptoms include memory loss, confusion and impaired judgment.

Confirming examples have happened in history. In 2002, West Bromwich Albion striker Geoff Astle died aged 59 from chronic traumatic encephalopathy. It was later established that the football player died from an “industrial disease.”

Previous research has shown that frequent exposure to the head can affect brain function and increase the risk of developing a certain type of dementia. This diagnosis was made to Sir Bobby Charlton, considered one of the greatest football players in England. Several other players on his World Cup-winning team were also diagnosed with the disease. It affects 1 in 11 people over 65 in the UK, according to the National Health Service.

Former US national team striker Bruce Murray is among the former athletes believed to have suffered from CTE. Murray recently revealed that he had been diagnosed with dementia.

When you hit your head, the rapid movement of the skull causes friction between the brain and the bones of the head and stretches the brain tissue. It can also affect tiny blood vessels, which play a crucial role in protecting people from dementia and other degenerative brain conditions.