NFL players face increased risk of neurodegenerative disease death

A study published in Clinical Medicine indicates that NFL players face an increased risk of death from neurodegenerative diseases. While former athletes generally live longer than the average person and show lower risks for cancer, heart disease, and suicide, researchers found their risk for dementia is unexpectedly high.

Recent high-profile diagnoses among former players highlight these risks. Former player Chris Johnson recently disclosed a diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and Hall of Fame running back Roger Craig revealed he is living with vascular dementia. While the link between contact sports and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) is well-known, this research suggests a broader connection to other neurodegenerative conditions.