Football is associated with nearly one in five brain injuries in youth sports, a new study has found. Researchers matched young athletes with traumatic brain injury to peers with lower-leg fractures and no brain injury history. Repeat brain injuries were common, occurring in 37% of football injuries compared with 32% across all sports.

Players with brain injury faced a 23% higher risk of chronic headaches, along with higher risks of visual impairment, anxiety, depression and substance use. Brain injuries at younger ages were linked to developmental and mood disorders, while those at older ages were tied to substance use disorders.

The researchers called youth football a critical public health priority and suggested delaying tackle football and limiting repeat injuries to protect developing brains. The study used clinical data, which the authors noted as a limitation. The researchers said prioritising safety standards like delaying tackle football participation could help protect developing brains.

Each athlete with brain injury was matched to one of the same age and sex with a lower-leg fracture.