Are former NFL players at higher risk for brain decline? new study aims to find out

NCT ID NCT04708613

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: David Okonkwo, MD, PhD Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study compares brain health in 300 former professional football players (ages 29-59) to a similar group of men who did not play football. Participants will undergo cognitive tests, balance and eye-movement exams, sleep assessments, and high-resolution MRI scans. The goal is to measure how common cognitive impairment and neurodegeneration are in former players, and to identify early signs of brain decline.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to: If successful, this study could clarify how common brain health problems are in former football players and help guide future prevention or monitoring strategies.
What could go wrong: This is an observational study, not a treatment trial. It cannot prove cause and effect, and results may not apply to all athletes or the general public.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Brain Concussion Brain Injuries, Traumatic traumatic brain injury

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Pittsburgh Department of Neurosurgery
RECRUITING

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15213, United States

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