๐Ÿ›๏ธ Verified NIH Record โ€ข Updated 2026-04-21

NFL LONG Prospective Study (NCT04263337)

Neurologic Function Across the Lifespan: A Prospective, LONGitudinal, and Translational Study for Former National Football League Players

๐Ÿ”ต Active, Not Recruiting Phase1 ๐Ÿ’Š Investigational Drug / Biologic Sponsor: University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill

๐Ÿฉบ Plain-English Summary (8th-Grade Level)

The purpose of this 5-year prospective research study is to characterize the association between concussions, sub-concussive exposure, and long-term neurologic health outcomes in former NFL players. To achieve the study aims, the investigators will conduct detailed research visits that include clinical outcome assessments, blood-based biomarkers, advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET) using investigational tracers and genetic testing. Ultimately, the goal of this study is to translate the findings from this study into clinical, interventional studies for at risk former NFL players.

Who can join: Review the eligibility criteria below.

Location: Boston Children's Hospital โ€” Waltham, Massachusetts

Age range: 50 Years to 70 Years

๐Ÿงช Interventions in This Study

๐Ÿ“‹ "Do I Qualify?" โ€” 1-Minute Self Screener

Instant Checklist

Full eligibility criteria are available on the official NIH protocol. View the criteria โ†—

๐Ÿ“ All Participating Trial Locations (3 Sites)

  • Boston Children's Hospital โ€” Waltham, Massachusetts
  • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill โ€” Chapel Hill, North Carolina
  • Medical College of Wisconsin โ€” Milwaukee, Wisconsin

๐Ÿ’ฐ Cost, Insurance & Patient Rights

  • 100% Free Items: The investigational treatment and protocol-required procedures are supplied at zero cost by the sponsor.
  • Routine Patient Care: Under federal law (ACA ยง 2709) and many state statutes, routine care costs are covered during participation.
  • Voluntary Participation: You may withdraw at any time without affecting your standard medical care.

More studies in Concussion, Brain

๐Ÿ’ก How to Participate

  1. Check the checklist above to see if you may qualify.
  2. Review the official NIH record below to find the coordinating site.
  3. Ask about the visit schedule, what is covered at no cost, and any travel support.
  4. Confirm with your own doctor before making a decision.
๐Ÿ›๏ธ View Official NIH Record โ†—