July 18 – Researchers have found evidence suggesting that repetitive heading of balls during a professional football career is associated with a higher risk of cognitive impairment in later life.
The independent research study commissioned by England’s Football Association represents further evidence of a direct link between repeated heading and possible brain damage.
The study conducted by the University of Nottingham covered over 450 retired professional footballers over the age of 45.
Former players who recalled heading the ball between six and 15 times in a match were found to be 2.71 times more likely to show symptoms of impairment than those who headed a ball less often.
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham commented: “This study is another step in understanding any potential link between neurogenerative disorders and former professional footballers.
”As we work to gain a greater understanding of the medical research, we will continue to take a leading role as the governing body in reviewing the safety of our game and addressing potential risk factors which may be associated with football.
”These include the removal of heading from training for primary school age children and recommendations on limits for all ages. We are also trialling the complete removal of heading in U12 football.”
Maheta Molango, head of England’s Professional Footballers Association, added: “This study supports existing evidence highlighting footballers’ increased vulnerability to cognitive decline in their later years. It will continue to be vitally important to build the knowledge base and understanding of this relationship so that effective action and interventions can take place.
“That means real-world changes in training practices and matchday protocols to protect the wellbeing of players, but also the ways in which former players can be supported.”
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