(Gina Digravio-Boston/ Futura) — Scientists have long believed that a single traumatic brain injury (TBI) earlier in life may contribute to problems with memory, thinking, and depression later in life. In most previous studies, however, research failed to examine the possible role of having a history of exposure to repetitive head impacts, including those leading to “subconcussive” injuries, in these later-life problems.
Researchers analyzed the records of 13,323 individuals age 40 and older (average age 62) who participate in the internet-based Brain Health Registry. Of those, 725 or 5% of participants reported exposure to previous repetitive head impacts through contact sports, abuse, or military service.
In addition to repetitive head impact history, the scientists also examined the effects of having a TBI with and without loss of consciousness.
Along with self-report questionnaires of repetitive head impact and TBI history, participants completed measures of depressive symptoms and computerized cognitive tests.
The findings in Neurology reveal that participants with a history of both repetitive head impacts and TBI reported greater depression symptoms than those who did not have such history. (…)