League of Denial Quiz Week 5

Concussions and Their Impact

• A concussion is a traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, leading to rapid movement of the brain within the skull.
• Concussions can result in severe physical and cognitive impairments.

Mike Webster

• Known as "Iron Mike," he was a strong defensive player for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
• After retiring at the age of 50, Webster faced numerous health problems including heart issues and suspected Alzheimer's disease.

Investigation into NFL Practices

• Investigative reporters Steve Fainaru and Mark Fainaru-Wada are looking into the NFL's handling of evidence regarding brain injuries in players.
• Mark Fainaru-Wada previously covered the steroid controversy involving baseball player Barry Bonds.

Mike Webster's Playing Style

• Webster was an aggressive player who pushed himself to be the best in the league.
• His choice of "weapon" in on-field conflicts was his head, emphasizing the brutal nature of the sport.

Injury Statistics

• Players hit each other’s heads approximately 1,000-1,500 times a year, each impact comparable to driving a car into a brick wall at 30 mph (20 g-force).

Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injury

• Post-retirement, Webster displayed symptoms such as anger, confusion, inability to organize thoughts, and rage outbursts.
• He resorted to super gluing his teeth back when they fell out.

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE)

• CTE is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by tau protein deposits in the brain.
• There is currently no cure for CTE.

Tau Proteins and Associated Diseases

• Tau proteins are essential for stabilizing microtubules in neurons, with excess production linked to diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

Popularity of "Monday Night Football"

• Launched in 1970, "Monday Night Football" capitalized on societal trends towards violence and instant gratification, turning the game into an entertainment spectacle.

NFL's Marketing of Violence

• The NFL has been known to market violence, evident in the logo for "Monday Night Football" which depicted crashing helmets.

Troy Aikman's Experiences with Concussions

• Aikman recounted disorienting memories post-concussion, struggling to remember basic details about the game and hospital visit.

NFL's Initial Response to Concussion Concerns

• The NFL created the MTBI under Dr. Elliot Pellman, who downplayed the seriousness of concussions as a health issue.

Flawed Research Studies

• Initial studies minimized the risks of concussions, wrongly suggesting players could return to play immediately following a concussion without long-term consequences.

Dr. Bennett Omalu’s Findings

• Neuropathologist Dr. Omalu discovered CTE in Mike Webster's brain tissue, highlighting the dangers of repeated concussions.

Behavioral Changes Due to CTE

• CTE can lead to behavioral changes such as aggression, depression, memory loss, confusion, and dementia, all seen in Webster towards the end of his life.

NFL's Reaction to Discoveries on CTE

• The NFL pressured Dr. Omalu to retract his findings regarding CTE, indicating resistance to acknowledging the severity of brain injuries in football.

Test your knowledge on concussions and their impact from the League of Denial study material. This quiz covers key figures and concepts related to traumatic brain injuries, especially in sports. Challenge yourself with important information about Mike Webster and the nature of concussions.