Study Reveals High CTE Rates Among NFL Players Who Died from 2016 to 2021

A recent study published in The BMJ highlights that at least 24.5 percent of former NFL players who died between 2016 and 2021 were found to have chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Out of 878 players who passed away during this period, 215 were confirmed to have CTE, while the brains of 643 others were not examined, suggesting the actual percentage could be higher.

The findings have prompted discussions about the involvement of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in addressing health risks in professional football. Former OSHA officials have expressed concern over the high rate of CTE, with one describing it as astoundingly high. Current OSHA management noted that enforcement actions regarding professional athletes are rare.

The NFL and the NFL Players Association have responded to the study, emphasizing their commitment to improving player safety and acknowledging the serious risks associated with football. The study serves as a reminder of the ongoing health challenges faced by players, particularly regarding the potential future development of reliable diagnostic tests for CTE in living athletes.