New research says C.T.E. more common than previously thought

TYLER, Texas (KLTV) - New research is deepening our understanding of a brain condition caused by repeated head trauma. Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, also known as C.T.E., is becoming more common in athletes - particularly in football. First diagnosed in 2002, the condition has been discovered in hundreds of players since.

A study by the British Medical Journal found 25% of NFL players who died between 2016 and 2021 had CTE. Researchers estimate the rate for unexamined players could be as high as 97%. The disease can only be definitively diagnosed after death, through a microscopic examination of brain tissue to look for abnormal protein deposits. In a healthy brain, the Tau protein acts like a brace to keep your brain cells strong and resilient. For a brain suffering with C.T.E., there are four progressive stages of mental health deterioration.

Patients at stages one and two typically exhibit short-term memory loss and depression. Stage three results in cognitive decline, leading to stage four, in which patients can demonstrate advanced dementia.

There is currently no cure for the disease. Steps to keep players and families safe include wearing proper gear and practicing proper tackling technique. Tackling safely means closing the distance, striking with the shoulder, wrapping the legs and driving through the contact. Players should also lower their hips and bend their knees while keeping their head up. If an athlete does suffer a concussion, is important they get plenty of time to rest and recover before returning to the field.