UQ researchers to embark on groundbreaking study on athlete concussions

The University of Queensland is looking to recruit athletes for a 'first-of-its-kind' study on brain injury detection.

The study at UQ’s Queensland Brain Institute (QBI) aims to recruit healthy athletes for brain scans, with follow-up at regular intervals if they experience concussion.

Using functional MRI scanning technology, scientists at the Queensland Brain Institute (QBI) at the University of Queensland will observe the brains of healthy athletes aged between 18 and 40 and will then follow up with subsequent scans for those who report concussion.

Motor Accident Insurance Commission Senior Research Fellow Dr Fatimah Nasrallah said the unique study of several hundred participants would combine multiple measures to detect brain changes following a concussion.

Dr Nasrallah stated “through functional MRI brain scans taken before and following a concussion, we will assess the amount of time the brain requires to rest and heal.

“This study will also help to assess whether the early changes seen with imaging can be detected on memory tests or using biomarker measures.”

The study follows QBI’s #nobrainnogame campaign launched in 2016 to raise awareness of the dangers of concussion and fund groundbreaking research, receiving the backing of sporting codes across the country.

The #nobrainnogame campaign had the backing of sporting ambassadors including AFL Brisbane Lions defender Justin Clarke, who retired at 22 after a career-ending severe concussion; Queensland Firebirds and Australian Diamonds netball star Gabi Simpson; and former ARU Wallaby and Queensland Reds player David Croft.

QBI Director Professor Pankaj Sah said the study aimed to minimise the risk of long-term damage thought to be caused by concussion.

Professor Sah added “we aren’t trying to change sport; we’re trying to change outcomes.

“Understanding more about concussion and recognising the appropriate timeframe to be excluded from sport to prevent further injury to the brain will help keep the community involved in sport and protect player well-being.

“QBI has the depth of expertise to research not just better diagnostics and treatments for concussion, but to investigate the long-term effects of repeated concussion, which can include dementia.”

For more information go to www.qbi.uq.edu.au/concussionstudy 

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