What is CTE? The Condition That 1/3 of Former Players Fear They Have

Understanding CTE and Its Connection to Violence

Shane Tamura, a 27-year-old man who was found dead with a note claiming that football had caused him to develop chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), has brought attention to the serious health risks associated with contact sports. The note reportedly addressed former Pittsburgh Steelers player Terry Long, who died by suicide in 2005 after drinking antifreeze. At the time, doctors linked his death to depression caused by CTE.

In the note, Tamura wrote, “Terry Long, football gave me CTE and it caused me to drink a gallon of antifreeze.” He also expressed regret, stating, “Please study brain for CTE. I’m sorry. The league knowingly concealed the dangers to our brains to maximize profits. They failed us.”

New York City Mayor Eric Adams confirmed that the city’s medical examiner would determine the next steps for Tamura’s body, including whether his brain would be tested for CTE. He described the attack as “focused on the NFL,” noting that one staff member had been hospitalized during the incident.

What is CTE?

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, or CTE, is a progressive brain disorder linked to repeated head injuries, such as concussions. Symptoms can include memory loss, difficulty focusing, mood swings, poor judgment, and even suicidal thoughts. According to Harvard Medical School, these symptoms tend to worsen over time.

The Mayo Clinic states that while treatments like physical and speech therapy can help manage symptoms, there is currently no way to reverse the condition. CTE can only be diagnosed after death through an autopsy.

Despite its severity, the exact number of Americans affected by CTE remains unknown. However, the link between CTE and professional sports has raised significant concerns.

CTE and Professional Sports

The awareness surrounding CTE has led many athletes in high-contact sports to retire earlier than planned. A recent study of nearly 2,000 former NFL players found that one in three believed they had CTE. Former New England Patriots star Aaron Hernandez, who died by suicide in 2017, was later diagnosed with CTE. Similarly, Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre has expressed concerns about possibly having the disease.

Boston University reported that 345 out of 376 former NFL players studied were diagnosed with CTE. While Tamura never played in the NFL, he was a standout high school athlete, according to the LA Times.

CTE Beyond Football

Research has shown that CTE is not limited to football. Similar findings have been made in ice hockey players, boxers, rugby players, and military veterans. A study of former hockey players found that the risk of developing CTE increased by 34% for each additional year played. Longer careers were associated with more severe cases of the disease.

Dr. Rachel Grashow from Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health noted that neurodegenerative conditions like CTE are often linked to suicidal thoughts and self-harm, similar to what is seen in diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.

Preventing CTE

Efforts to prevent CTE include increased research and better protective equipment. Improved helmets have contributed to a 25% reduction in concussions across the last five NFL seasons, according to Harvard. Brain donations from athletes have also played a critical role in advancing understanding of the condition.

For those experiencing mental health struggles, support is available. In the UK and ROI, individuals can contact Samaritans at 116 123 or visit their website. In the U.S., the National Suicide Prevention Helpline is available at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). For those in other countries, resources can be found at www.befrienders.org.