Research Aimed to Detect CTE in Living Patients
Former NFL players and researchers are working to develop new methods for diagnosing CTE in those still living.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Alzheimer’s
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Former NFL quarterback Matt Hasselbeck participated in a Boston University study focused on developing diagnostic methods for chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). The research aims to improve clinical identification of the condition in living patients.
Why it matters
Currently, CTE can only be definitively diagnosed after death, so creating a framework for living patients could significantly increase access to care and resources for those concerned about their long-term brain health.
A Boston University brain imaging study utilizes MRI and PET scans to measure brain structures in former players. Researchers found that former football players exhibiting dementia symptoms had 6.7 times higher odds of having an enlarged cavum septum pellucidum.
The players
Matt Hasselbeck
A former NFL quarterback who played for 17 years and later served as an ESPN analyst.
Boston University
A major research institution leading efforts to advance diagnostics for neurodegenerative conditions linked to sports-related head trauma.
The details
Researchers use structural MRI and PET scans to capture detailed images of brain structures potentially affected by repeated head trauma. By analyzing these scans, the team is working to establish a clinical diagnostic framework that can identify biomarkers or structural markers characteristic of CTE while a patient is alive.
Timeline
Matt Hasselbeck worked as an ESPN analyst from 2016 to 2023.
The report on study participation was published in September 2026.
Health Landscape
The study marks an evolution in medical science by shifting from post-mortem analysis toward clinical, in-life diagnostics for CTE. It follows a decade of intensive research aimed at identifying neurodegenerative markers in retired professional athletes.
If you are concerned about persistent cognitive changes or neurological symptoms following a history of head impacts, it is worth discussing these developments with a neurologist. They can explain which diagnostic tools are currently available for evaluating your specific brain health status.
The takeaway
Advancing diagnostic capabilities for CTE represents a critical bridge to proactive care for individuals with a history of repetitive head trauma. Monitoring cognitive health and reporting changes to a physician remains the most effective strategy for managing long-term neurological concerns.
Further reading
For more on evolving research regarding long-term brain health and cognitive decline, visit Alzheimer’s.
Source note: This article includes information reported by AuntMinnie.
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Should medical research prioritize studying the long-term health effects on former professional athletes?
