New athlete concussion study in Aust

Scientists at The University of Queensland have launched a 'groundbreaking' study into concussion among athletes.

Athletes will be recruited for a 'first-of-its-kind' Australian study to improve the detection of the serious brain injury.

Using functional MRI scanning technology, scientists at the Queensland Brain Institute (QBI) at the University of Queensland will observe the brains of healthy athletes aged between 18-40 and will then follow up with subsequent scans for those who report concussion.

"This study will also help to assess whether the early changes seen with imaging can be detected on memory tests or using biomarker measures," said Senior Research Fellow Dr Fatima Nasrallah.

The study follows QBI's #nobrainnogame campaign launched in 2016 to raise awareness of the dangers of concussion, which had the backing of AFL Brisbane Lions defender Justin Clarke - who retired at 22 after a career-ending severe concussion - Queensland Firebirds and Australian Diamonds netball star Gabi Simpson, and former ARU Wallaby and Queensland Reds player David Croft.

QBI Director Professor Pankaj Sah says early detection would minimise the risk of long-term damage thought to be caused by concussion.

"We aren't trying to change sport; we're trying to change outcomes," Professor Sah said.

"Understanding more about concussion and recognising the appropriate timeframe to be excluded from sport to prevent further injury to the brain will help keep the community involved in sport and protect player well-being."