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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009
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Athletes to Donate Brains for Concussion Study

New research center studies the effects of concussions

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(Newser) – A dozen athletes have agreed to donate their brains to a new research project that will study them for the long-term effects of concussions, the New York Times reports. The Boston University center has already  examined the brains of six deceased NFL players, finding brain damage in five cases. Former New England Patriots linebacker Ted Johnson said he hopes donating his brain will help clarify debate.

“I’m not trying to reach up from the grave and get the NFL,” Johnson said. “But any doctor who doesn’t connect concussions with long-term effects should be ashamed of themselves.” Several published studies have linked concussions to cognitive impairment and depression. The 12 athletes, including six NFL players and a former US women’s soccer player, will be examined regularly for any cognitive problems.

Former Houston Oilers linebacker John Grimsley, who died earlier this year in an accidental shooting, had brain damage commonly associated with boxers, Boston University's new research center found.
Former Houston Oilers linebacker John Grimsley, who died earlier this year in an accidental shooting, had brain damage commonly associated with boxers, Boston University's new research center found.   (AP Photo/Houston Chronicle)
A new research center at Boston University is studying how concussions affect athletes' brains.
A new research center at Boston University is studying how concussions affect athletes' brains.   (Index Stock)
Houston Texans defensive tackle Travis Johnson stands over a knocked-out Miami Dolphins quarterback Trent Green during the first quarter of a game last year in Houston.
Houston Texans defensive tackle Travis Johnson stands over a knocked-out Miami Dolphins quarterback Trent Green during the first quarter of a game last year in Houston.   (AP Photo/Houston Chronicle)
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I'm doing this to raise awareness of concussion and the injury because it's so misunderstood. You can't say, 'Look at my broken leg.' It's a hidden injury. - Cindy Parlow, former US women's soccer player, who has agreed to donate her brain

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