Is age of first exposure (AFE) to football associated with brain health problems in midlife (ages 35-55)? Results from the study showed that those participating in football before the age of 12 (AFE <12) did not significantly differ from those starting football at or after the age of 12 (AFE >12) in mental health treatment (prescribed medications or care by a mental health professional), rates of difficulties across various areas (e.g., headaches, memory loss, anxiety, etc.), or depression and general symptom endorsement.
Iverson, G., Terry, D. P., Caccese, J. B., Buttner, F., & Merz, Z. C. (2020). Age of First Exposure to Football is not Associated with Midlife Brain Health Problems. J Neurotrauma. doi:10.1089/neu.2020.7041