CTE Awareness Initiative
The Disease That Has Haunted Sports Players for Years: CTE
Dive into the mysterious world of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), a chilling consequence of repeated head impacts in sports. Explore its elusive detection, the battle for prevention, and the urgent need for safety measures to safeguard athletes' brains.

Alvin Li
April 28, 2024, 12:23 a.m. ET

CTE

One disorder that has come under intense spotlight due to its link with recurrent head impacts and concussions is Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). This disease entails the slow buildup of anomalous proteins in the brain that brings about mass killing of brain cells and degeneration of brain tissue over an extensive period. In distinction from acute traumatic brain injuries, whose symptoms are prompt and particular, CTE may manifest long after many years have gone by post the primary trauma.

Effects

A cognitive condition in CTE that is a negative consequence to this dynamic injury. They have impairments with memory, loss of judgement and confusion— as well as difficulty concentrating. It has been linked with an array of changes including behavior plus mood which are usually difficult to deal with by both the individual affected and those surrounding him or her. Symptoms commonly include irritability and aggression, impulsivity, depression, as well as anxiety. When it progresses to more advanced phases, CTE can trigger motor impairments that mimic those seen in other neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson's— which involves tremors and an inability to effectively coordinate one's movements together with complications walking or standing upright. Moreover, research has implied a substantial link between CTE and heightened tendencies towards harboring suicidal thoughts or engaging in such behaviors. CTE detection continues being notably elusive. Only upon death can CTE be conclusively identified posthumously by means of studying brain tissues

Prevention

It is crucial that athletes, coaches, parents and healthcare professionals are aware of the risks related to recurrent head injuries. Recognition of the signs and symptoms of concussions and other traumatic brain injuries is key to early intervention— decreasing chances for re-injury later. In addition, the adoption of changes in rules and safety precautions in contact sports can contribute to reducing the frequency of head traumas. This involves no leniency on those engaging in dangerous play through strict penalties; fairness and safety of competition should be promoted, including emphasizing the correct technique during training as well as actual gameplay. The use of helmets and mouthguards can be taken as a preventive measure to ensure that injuries don't happen, such as head injuries. The protective equipment must fit well and needs to be checked often for any damage since they should comply with the safety standards set by authorized organizations. These measures are only some of the many ways CTE can be prevented. It is encouraged that readers research the different ways this degenerative brain disease can be stopped.