IMPACT-DETECTING HELMETS AS INDICATORS OF CONCUSSION AND BLOOD-BRAIN BARRIER DYSFUNCTION IN UNIVERSITY FOOTBALL PLAYERS

Abstract

Repeated exposure to sub-concussive and concussive head impacts in contact sports can alter brain architecture and lead to lasting symptoms. Prior research suggests such impacts may contribute to blood-brain barrier disruption (BBBD). This study examined the relationship between repetitive head impacts, concussion incidence, and BBBD in 190 university football players over five seasons. Head impacts were tracked using ferroelectric sensors, with symptom assessments conducted using the SCAT-5/6 and ImPACT. A total of 11,635 impacts were recorded, with defensive players sustaining the most. Concussion symptoms and severity increased significantly from baseline. Fifty-nine dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) scans assessed BBBD across various timepoints. A significant reduction in BBBD% was observed following the implementation of protective helmet padding during the 2023–2024 seasons. These findings highlight the role of repetitive impacts in early brain injury and support the use of impact monitoring and soft-shell helmet covers as effective interventions for safer play.