Key Takeaways

Repetitive head injuries can cause brain cell loss and brain damage among young athletes

Contact sports players had neuron loss even if they didn’t develop chronic traumatic encephalopathy

Researchers also observed immune cell and blood vessel changes in the brain

TUESDAY, Sept. 23, 2025 (HealthDay News) — It’s back-to-school time, and young athletes are preparing to hit the field once more for their school or college.

However, participation in contact sports could be costing these athletes valuable brain power, according to a new study.

Repetitive head impact-related brain injuries can cause a cascade of brain cell loss as well as inflammation and vascular damage among young athletes participating in sports like football, soccer or ice hockey, researchers reported Sep

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