Changes in peripheral blood and cognitive performance after nonconcussive head impacts in elite female soccer players.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Exposure to repetitive head impacts (RHI) has been shown to be associated with cognitive impairment and markers of neurodegeneration in professional male soccer players. However, data on the effects of RHI in female players are very limited. In this exploratory study, we investigated changes in blood biomarkers along with the cognitive status of elite female soccer players and compared the effect of RHI with outcomes in male players.

Methods

In a cohort study, elite female soccer players (age 16-41 years) performed training without heading the ball (n = 36) and training including heading (n = 30). Athletes were evaluated for the parameters of physical activity (heart rate) and neuropsychological testing (focused attention and cognitive flexibility) before and 1 h

SUBMITTER: Cente M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12504563 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature