New Zealand Rugby Study Reveals Higher Dementia Risk for Players

A recent study from New Zealand has found that male rugby players are at a greater risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, compared to the general population. Published in the journal Sports Medicine, the research tracked over 12,800 male athletes who participated in provincial or international rugby between 1950 and 2000.

The results indicate that 6.5% of these rugby players developed a neurodegenerative condition, while the rate for the general population was 5.2%. This equates to approximately a 22% higher risk among rugby players. The increased risk was particularly notable after the age of 70 and was more pronounced in those who had longer careers and played at higher levels.

Implications of the Findings

The study adds to a growing body of evidence linking collision sports to long-term brain health risks. Previous studies in soccer and American football have similarly indicated elevated risks of dementia and related disorders among former players. Autopsy analyses have also identified chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in athletes across various sports, a condition associated with repeated head injuries.

In a recent example, former Australian Football League player Adam Hunter was diagnosed with CTE following his death at the age of 43. In rugby, former All Black Carl Hayman, now 45, is facing early-onset dementia and is part of a group of ex-players suing World Rugby for inadequate protections against head injuries.

The New Zealand study is the largest of its kind conducted in the country, using medical and death records to identify instances of neurodegenerative disease. While it provides compelling evidence of an association, the researchers noted that additional factors, such as the specific nature of contact events, may also play a significant role.

Context and Future Actions

The research did not encompass women, amateur players, or those who played after 2000, a period during which rugby underwent significant professionalization and introduced new regulations aimed at minimizing head injuries.

The project received support from both World Rugby and the New Zealand Rugby Foundation. While this backing raises questions about the study’s independence, the authors maintained the integrity of their research process. New Zealand Rugby acknowledged that the findings contribute to the ongoing discourse regarding player safety.

Since 2000, the organization has implemented stricter tackle laws, updated return-to-play protocols, and enhanced medical evaluations to address concussion risks. Mark Robinson, Chief Executive Officer of New Zealand Rugby, stated, “While we can’t change the past, we acknowledge the impact rugby has had on some players and their whānau. Their experiences matter deeply and continue to guide our efforts to improve player welfare and drive meaningful change across the game.”

This latest research underscores the need for ongoing vigilance and reform in contact sports to better protect players’ long-term health.