IRB Study Number 10-944
Status Recruiting
Location Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health - Las Vegas
Institute Neurological Institute
Description
Presently, we lack a biomarker or clinical indicator that can predict if a combatant is in danger of developing permanent brain damage or is already on a trajectory of cognitive decline. Most studies examining boxers or other combatants are cross sectional, retrospective, utilize single outcomes (either psychometric or imaging), or did not have access to newer investigative technology including new imaging technology. The present study proposes both a cross-sectional and longitudinal evaluation of professional combatants in Nevada with the overall goal of developing appropriate biomarkers for traumatic brain injury related to professional fighting. Hopefully, these tools can be used to identify combatants with and at risk for permanent brain damage with the overall goal of preventing long-term neurologic and cognitive deficits.
Inclusion Criteria
- 18 years of age and older (male or female)
- Individual licensed for professional boxing or mixed martial arts; retired professional boxers or mixed martial arts; active or retired professional athletes potentially exposed to repetitive head injuries, such as professional bull riders; or individuals that have not participated in combat or contact sports such as rugby, football, hockey, soccer or rodeo at a high school or above level
- Fluent in English
- Willing to consent to APOE genotyping and other DNA analysis
Exclusion Criteria
- Cannot undergo an MRI scan
