Warning to Players regarding Concussions
A new poster will be distributed to the teams in NFL that warn of the dangers from concussions in much harsher language than the league had previously used.
The document reads, “Traumatic brain injury “may lead to problems with memory and communication, personality changes, as well as depression and the early onset of dementia. Concussions and conditions resulting from repeated brain injury can change your life and your family’s life forever.”
From a pamphlet previously distributed to players, starting in 2007, the acknowledgment of such risks is a significant change.
That pamphlet said, “Current research with professional athletes has not shown that having more than one or two concussions leads to permanent problems if each injury is managed properly.”
As per the co-chairman of the NFL committee, Dr. Richard Ellenbogen, in just the last few months’ reports that have come out, influenced the changes in wording.
The NFL’s and unions medical committees had jointly worked on the document. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institutes of Health and Department of Defense are the organizations that were consulted.
Ellenbogen said, “This is the most avant garde, up-to-date scientific document out there for a contact sport. While it’s intended for the pros, we’re hoping it has a trickle-down effect to make every sport safer.”
Keith Brooking, veteran Cowboys linebacker said, “it’s always good to have “anything that can warn guys and can give everyone transparency so it’s clear the effects of this game that we play. If I knew that 12 years ago coming into this, I wouldn’t change a thing; I wouldn’t do anything different.”
It is important for players to be aware of the risks, said fellow Dallas linebacker Anthony Spencer. Although he is not sure, the new poster will make them any more knowledgeable.
He said, “I’m sure everyone knows. I don’t think it’s a big secret.”
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