Chronic Boxer’s Encephalophaty — what Can Blunt Head Trauma Lead to?

Abstract

Introduction. Martial arts competitors are particularly vulnerable to blows to the head, which may result in brain injuries and brain damage, and consequently memory and speech disorders. Chronic boxer’s encephalopathy, also known as boxing dementia. This is a type of brain injury that is caused by long-term exposure to head trauma, especially as a result of repeated concussions or injuries associated with boxing or other sports where there is a risk of head injuries. Chronic boxer’s encephalopathy symptoms can vary, but often include memory problems, abnormal thinking, behavioral changes, balance problems, sleep disturbances, and other neurological symptoms. It is recommended to wear appropriate head protectors when practicing contact sports, avoid excessive trauma, and undergo periodic examinations, which can detect changes in the brains of people who are exposed to the risk of head injuries. Aim. The aim of the study was to check the knowledge about chronic boxer’s encephalopathy among people practicing martial arts. Material and Methods. The study used a self-designed questionnaire, which consisted of a personal data sheet, 23 single-choice questions, and 7 multiple-choice questions. The study group consisted of 181 people practicing various martial arts. Results. Slightly more than half of the respondents indicated that they knew what a chronic boxer’s encephalopathy was. People with longer experience more often declared knowledge of the concept of chronic boxer’s encephalopathy than people with shorter experience. Conclusions. Many people practicing martial arts do not know what the risk of chronic boxer’s encephalopathy is. (JNNN 2024;13(2):62–68)