The recent news about former NFL running back Chris Johnson's ALS diagnosis has sparked an important conversation about the link between football and this devastating disease. While Johnson chose not to emphasize this connection in his public announcement, it's a critical aspect that deserves attention.
The ALS-Football Connection
The association between ALS and football is well-established. In fact, it's one of the conditions that automatically qualifies retired players for compensation from the NFL's concussion settlement fund. A study of NFL athletes who debuted between 1960 and 2019 found that their risk of developing ALS was nearly four times higher than the general population. This is a significant finding that cannot be ignored.
A Missed Opportunity
The Good Morning America segment featuring Johnson's interview failed to mention the ties between ALS and football. It's a glaring omission, especially considering the context. Johnson's wife hinted at a potential connection to his football career, and the narrator, Michael Strahan, mentioned "sporadic ALS," which is more common in those without a family history of the illness. The fact that 90% of ALS cases are sporadic means that for football players, the disease is less random and more linked to their sport.
Holding Media Accountable
Jeff Pearlman rightly criticized the media's refusal to acknowledge this connection. It's a responsibility that media outlets should take seriously. The public has a right to know about the potential long-term health risks associated with football, especially given the physical nature of the sport. Players and their families deserve to make informed decisions about their participation.
The Risks of Playing Football
Football is a high-impact sport that carries a range of risks. From concussions to torn ligaments, broken bones, and even life-threatening neck injuries, the physical toll can be severe. Additionally, the accumulation of concussions and subconcussive blows to the head can lead to long-term health issues like ALS, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and dementia. These risks are not exclusive to football; other sports like hockey, rugby, basketball, and even soccer involve head trauma risks. Combat sports like UFC take this to an extreme, with fighters enduring repeated head blows.
The Future of Football
The potential restriction of young players entering the sport due to these risks is a real concern. While the quality of athletes may diminish over time, the existential threat to the game is a conversation that needs to be had. Parents and players must be aware of the risks and make informed choices. The benefits of participating in sports must be weighed against the potential long-term consequences.
A Call for Transparency
The feature disclosing Johnson's fight with ALS missed an opportunity to educate the public about the football-ALS connection. It's a critical aspect that should not be overlooked or downplayed. Media outlets have a responsibility to inform and educate, especially when it comes to matters of public health and safety. In my opinion, it's time for a more transparent and honest dialogue about the risks associated with football and other contact sports.
