Rugby Brains

A University of South Wales study reveals that player's brains are damaged by a single season of professional rugby (https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2021/aug/31/rugby-players-brains-affected-in-single-season-study-suggests). Prior to this study, people were mainly concerned about the effects of cumulative concussions. This is always a danger in a sport, with an emphasis on speed and physical contact. The Welsh study revealed, however, that the players had reduced blood flow to their brains. This would reduce the brain's supply of both oxygen and glucose (that organ has no stores). The players also showed evidence of impaired cognitive function, reducing their ability to plan and adapt their game. There may be partial solutions if the wearing of head protection was made mandatory. The number of substitutions could also be increased, as tired players may not assume the right postures to limit damage. Further studies are planned to look at the effects of long-term playing on issues like dementia.