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Melissa Hutsell is an award-winning freelance journalist with a deep rooted passion for both community and international journalism. She was born and raised in Northern California, and has lived, studied, worked, and traveled in more 20 different countries. Melissa holds a Master's degree in Global Journalism from City University London, as well as degrees in Journalism and Globalization from Humboldt State University. Though she covers various topics as both a writer and editor, she specializes in business and cannabis journalism.
What The NFL Should Know About Concussions And Cannabis
This week, the results of a study that examined the brains of deceased NFL players in America found that nearly all had signs of the neurodegenerative condition, chronic traumatic encephalopathy (otherwise know as CTE). Researchers found 110 out of 111 of the brains studied had signs of the disease, which is caused by head trauma (see the 2015 film Concussion for a recent Hollywood portrayal of the discovery of the disorder).
The results of the study have more and more people turning to cannabis. Though little is still known about CTE, groups such as the nonprofit organization, Doctors for Cannabis Regulation (DFCR), are advocating for cannabis as a form of treatment and prevention for athletes.
The group – which consists of former NFL players and medical professionals – believes marijuana is safer to use than opioids for issues like pain. They also believe it can help to curb brain damage, and specifically treat CTE.
Currently, the NFL bans the use of cannabis. However, the author notes, the league does not prohibit – but rather profits and promotes – the use of more addictive substances like alcohol and prescription drugs.
Doctors such as Suzanne Sisley are trying to convince the league to reconsider its view on cannabis use, citing the plant’s neuro-protective characteristics. “We have preclinical data at the receptor level that cannabinoids and cannabis are not only involved with brain repair but neurogenesis, the development of new neural tissue,” she added, “It’s one of the most exciting discoveries of modern neuroscience.”
The future is green, and while more evidence showing the existence of CTE and efficacy of cannabis comes to light, the more eyes will be on sports organizations like the NFL.
