[ad_1]
Responding to the recent study on the prevalence of CTE among professional football players, the NFL Players Association offered assurances to its membership and representatives that the union remains committed to improving player safety and helping them lead healthy lives beyond their playing careers.
In an email sent to players and their agents — a copy of which was obtained by The Athletic — NFLPA leaders encouraged players and their family members that despite the study’s findings that at least one in four NFL players develop the brain disease known as CTE, the union continues to make heavy investments to better understand brain injuries while also striving for answers on how to prevent and better treat them.
“The findings are a sobering reminder that football carries serious risks that can have lasting consequences for players and their families,” NFLPA leaders wrote. “In short, the study suggests that CTE may be significantly more common among NFL players than previously understood, reinforcing the importance of continued research, care, and support.
“We understand that studies like this can create concern for you and your loved ones. At the same time, they should not diminish hope.
“While CTE can only be definitively diagnosed after death, many symptoms commonly associated with CTE, including memory challenges, mood changes, depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and cognitive difficulties, may also be caused by other medical or neurological conditions, many of which can be treated or managed. That is why a thorough medical evaluation is so important.”
Citing the stance taken by Dr. Daniel Daneshvar, one of the lead researchers of the study, the union leaders reminded players that many of the symptoms associated with CTE can be treated. The NFLPA also urged players not to ignore symptoms they or their family members observe, and provided a lengthy list of resources available to them for medical care.
“Pay attention to your cognitive, neurological, and overall health,” the message continued. “If you have concerns, seek evaluation and support. Early intervention matters. Resources are available today that can help.”
The union also announced plans to hold conference calls with medical experts in the coming weeks to help players better understand the findings of the study, how the NFLPA and its medical team are working to support them, and what roles players can take in helping ensure their immediate and long-term help.
[ad_2]
Source link
