Cumulative Effects Associated With Recurrent Concussion in Collegiate Football Players

Abstract

The high incidence of cerebral concussion in contact sports is well documented.^1-8 According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 300 000 sport-related concussions occur annually in the United States,⁹ and the likelihood of serious sequelae may increase with repeated head injury.¹⁰ Recent publications addressing the negative consequences of recurrent concussion in sports raise questions regarding the potential long-term sequelae associated with this injury,^11-13 and recurrent concussion has forced several collegiate and professional athletes to retire early from their respective sports.