Repetitive head impacts in contact sports increase the risk of dementia

The Health Council of the Netherlands advises limiting exposure to repetitive head impacts for contact sports athletes. Participants in soccer, combat sports and rugby are subjected to head impacts from purposeful heading of the ball and blows to the head or body. Research shows that exposure to repetitive head impacts increases the risk of dementia later in life. The Netherlands Sports Council will publish concrete recommendations for government, sports organisations and athletes at the end of the summer.