FOR THE WEEK OF NOV. 04, 2013

Concussion risks for teen athletes raise concerns and draw closer attention

New research adds to concerns about brain injury risks for high school athletes who play football, lacrosse baseball and soccer. Medical experts found that concussion rates are higher in high school-aged athletes who play football, baseball, men's lacrosse and men's soccer than for college athletes in those sports. For girls, soccer is the most dangerous sport.

The number of patients 19 and younger treated in emergency rooms for concussions and other sports or recreation-related traumatic brain injuries rose from 150,000 in 2001 to 250,00 in 2009, says the national Institute of Medicine report. Doctors and athletic professionals have become increasingly worried in recent years about the long-term impact of sports head injuries, which can affect learning ability, memory, emotions and sleep. Young athletes usually recover from a concussion within two weeks. But in 10 to 20 percent of cases, problems persist for weeks, months or even years.

The new report's authors say students may play in a "culture of resistance" that discourages them from reporting concussions or continuing with treatment plans. Some coaches push players to keep playing after a head injury, according to researchers. The 306-page study also increases pressure on helmet makers, who have sometimes suggested that their products reduce the risk of concussions. The Institute of Medicine committee sees "little evidence that current sports helmet designs reduce the risk of concussions."

Study leader says: "The findings of our report justify the concerns about sports concussions in young people. . . . We urge parents, schools, athletic departments and the public to . . . make more informed decisions about young athletes playing sports." -- Robert Graham, George Washington University in Washington, D.C.

Ex-NFL player says: "Back when I was playing, you weren't allowed to get hurt. . . . You get your butt back in the game. . . . You waited all your life to become an NFL player. Nothing's going to stop you from going back that into that game. So, you lie about it. You say you're fine and get back in." – Fred McCrary

Doctor says: "There's essentially nothing known about concussions in elementary school and middle school-aged kids. And that's really why there's a need for more research." -- Dr. Frederick Rivara, University of Washington School of Medicine

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Common Core State Standard
SL.CCS.1/2/3/4 Grades 6-12: An essay of a current news event is provided for discussion to encourage participation, but also inspire the use of evidence to support logical claims using the main ideas of the article. Students must analyze background information provided about a current event within the news, draw out the main ideas and key details, and review different opinions on the issue. Then, students should present their own claims using facts and analysis for support.