Researchers with the University of North Carolina (UNC) conducted research showing an increase in fatal football injuries since 2010. The research, which was published by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), analyzed 28 fatal football injuries that occurred between 2005 and 2014. Among the 28 killed, 24 were high school players and four were collegiate athletes. Brain injuries and spinal cord injuries were the main causes of death.

What is most troubling about the CDC report is that some of these deaths may have been preventable. According to the findings, 8 of the 28 deaths were caused by head-first/head-down tackling. This type of tackle is banned in football to prevent injuries. Another 20 were caused by players returning to the game too soon after a concussion.

Colorado and many other states have laws addressing when high school athletes can return to play. Players who receive one concussion, and then another soon after, are at risk of succumbing to second-impact syndrome.

Can We Reduce Fatal Brain Injuries Among Football Players?

The CDC believes improved injury surveillance and onsite services during games can prevent these types of deaths. Onsite medical assessments would allow coaches and athletic directors to know whether athletes can return to play. The CDC believes athletic departments should improve emergency planning for severe injuries, and should ensure players are using proper tackling techniques.

This would not be the first time changes have improved football safety. UNC conducted similar research on football injuries between 1965 and 1974, a period where fatalities were four times higher. The availability of medical treatment, improved equipment standards and banning of certain tackling techniques brought these numbers down. The CDC believes there is still room for improvement.

It is important for high schools to follow state “return-to-play” laws. Schools that fail to follow these laws may be held accountable when students suffer severe or fatal injuries.