Study finds NFL players face high ALS risk before age 50

A recent study highlights that former NFL players are at significant risk of dying from ALS before age 50. The Concussion & CTE Foundation identified 10 NFL players since 1960 who have died from ALS at a young age, whereas fewer than one would be expected in the general population. The findings emphasize the need for further research into the connection between head impacts in football and the onset of motor neuron diseases. Dr. Daniel Daneshvar, a co-author of the study, stressed the urgency of improving access to neurological care for former players. While the average lifespan of NFL players is longer than that of the general population, the study found that deaths due to neurodegenerative diseases are nearly four times higher than expected.

• 1:40 PMYahoo Sports — Study finds former NFL players die from ALS before age 50 at alarmingly high rates