Previous research has shown that repetitive head trauma — often associated with contact sports such as American football — could result in chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Following the largest study of brains in younger athletes at Boston University's CTE Center, it was found that a surprising number showed signs of the neurodegenerative brain disease. 

While research is ongoing, it's important to note that for the average person, the benefits of participating in sports far outweigh the risks, said Steve Broglio, director of the U-M Concussion Center. For more, read the CNN story at myumi.ch/DwMrA.