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Brain study detects CTE in 31 Australian rugby league players, reports say

Researchers found CTE in 31 of 51 examined rugby league brains, according to Associated Press.

The short version

  • A study using Australian Sports Brain Bank data found chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in 31 out of 51 donated rugby league brains.[Associated Press]
  • The diagnosed individuals included athletes in their 20s, 30s, and 40s.[Associated Press]
  • The research was presented by Jennifer Cropley at the International Sports Concussion Conference in Melbourne.[Associated Press]
  • Local media reported that journalists were prohibited from attending the sports concussion conference.[Associated Press]

Key facts

  • Examinations showed that 31 out of 51 donated rugby league players' brains had CTE.[Associated Press]
  • The findings from the Australian Sports Brain Bank indicated CTE was present in players aged in their 20s, 30s, and 40s.[Associated Press]
  • Molecular biologist and data scientist Jennifer Cropley presented the findings at the International Sports Concussion Conference in Melbourne.[Associated Press]
  • Domestic media reported that journalists were barred from attending the conference.[Associated Press]

What remains uncertain

  • CTE cannot currently be diagnosed in living patients and relies entirely on post-mortem examinations.[Associated Press]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.