Impact of Sport Injuries on Brain Function

Summary

This project explores the serious consequences of sports-related brain injuries, focusing on chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), multiple sclerosis (MS), and traumatic brain injury (TBI). While sports have many benefits for brain health, they also pose risks for severe brain injuries, which can lead to lasting cognitive and neurological damage. CTE, often caused by repeated head trauma, results in symptoms like memory loss and confusion. Research suggests that the gene TMEM106B plays a role in neuroinflammation linked to CTE. MS, an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the nervous system's protective coverings, can cause visual impairments and cognitive issues. It is associated with the HLA-DRB1 gene, and treatments like DMT help slow disease progression. TBI, resulting from severe head injuries, can cause symptoms ranging from headaches to seizures. Treatments vary depending on severity, with mild cases requiring rest and more severe cases needing medications and surgery. The project emphasizes the need for further research into the genetic and environmental factors contributing to these conditions, as well as the development of more effective treatments and preventive strategies. This research is crucial for improving outcomes for athletes and others at risk of brain injuries.

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Impact Statement

My project explores the serious consequences of sports-related brain injuries, focusing on chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), multiple sclerosis (MS), and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Being an athlete myself, I was interested in how a sport injury could eventually lead to a serious neurological disease. Throughout this project, I was able to learn a lot about CTE, MS, and TBI (the three most common diseases among athletes) and also learn about the ways to prevent this disease. This program helped me prepare for future research with the different guidelines and resources provided. I was able to get a deeper understanding on what to look for when researching and how to make sure that the sources I find are reliable.

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_By: Rithini Ramesh Kumar_

The opinions expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Elio Academy.

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