CTE is most commonly talked about in relation to contact sports, such as football, but it can occur in anyone who has suffered repetitive hits to the head. Those who are at the highest risk of suffering multiple head traumas include:
ATHLETES IN CONTACT SPORTS
Any high-contact sport carries the risk of head injuries, such as football, boxing, hockey, soccer, rugby, lacrosse, water polo, skiing, snowboarding, basketball, etc.
MEMBERS OF THE MILITARY
Some military service members are exposed to explosions during combat or training exercises. As a result, they can either be thrown into an object or may suffer a blow to the head from debris.
ABUSIVE RELATIONSHIPS
Women, children, and men can suffer an intentional blow to the head in a domestic violence dispute. Additionally, babies that are shaken can also suffer from CTE later in life.
ACCIDENTAL FALLS
Unintentional falls are the leading cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in the United States.