Neuropsychological dysfunction following repeat concussions in jockeys.
BACKGROUND
Single and repeat concussions have a high prevalence in sport. However, there is limited research into longterm risks associated with single and repeat concussions.


OBJECTIVE
To determine the effects of single and repeat historical concussions on the neuropsychological functioning and neurological reports of licensed jockeys.


METHODS
Six hundred and ninety eight licensed jockeys in the UK were assessed for neurological and neuropsychological symptoms of concussion at least three months after potential episodes.


RESULTS
Jockeys reporting multiple historical injuries versus a single injury showed reliable decrements on a measure of response inhibition and, to a less robust degree, on divided attention. Younger adults showed greater vulnerability.


CONCLUSIONS
Repeated concussion is associated with reliable decrements in cognitive performance--even after a three month window for recent recovery.
School of Psychology and Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience, Washington Singer Laboratories, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QG, UK.
S E
SE
Wall
W H
WH
Williams
S
S
Cartwright-Hatton
T P
TP
Kelly
J
J
Murray
M
M
Murray
A
A
Owen
M
M
Turner
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001265:Athletic Injuries / Q000150:complications*; D001924:Brain Concussion / Q000150:complications*; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology; D003710:Demography; D004522:Educational Status; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D010507:Periodicity; D012008:Recurrence; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D012737:Sex Factors; D013997:Time Factors