Incidence, Prevalence and Diagnosis of Concussion in Contact Sports Athletes

Dear Colleagues,

Mild traumatic brain injuries are a critical concern in contact sports such as American football, rugby, soccer, hockey, and martial arts, etc. This Special Issue aims to consolidate up-to-date evidence on the global epidemiology of concussion (incidence, prevalence, risk factors), advances and challenges in accurate diagnosis (clinical tools, biomarkers, neuroimaging), and implications for athlete safety, sports policies, and return-to-play protocols.

Lines of investigation:
1. Epidemiology and Risk Factors:
a) Comparative incidence/prevalence data between sports, sports level, and genders.
b) Risk factors: athlete position, concussion history, contact techniques, physical fitness.
c) Underreporting: causes, consequences, and mitigation strategies.
d) Sensitivity and specificity of concussion detection methods.
e) Distinguishing between concussion, post-concussion syndrome, and other comorbidities (e.g., migraine, sleep disorders).

2. Impact of prevention and rehabilitation in athletes:
a) Novice athletes, women, Paralympians.
b) Elite vs. recreational athletes.
c) Return-to-learn/work protocols.
d) Consequences of repeated concussions (CTE, depression, cognitive decline).
e) Education of athletes, coaches, and parents on early recognition.

Dr. Ciro José Brito
Guest Editor

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