Cause 5: The Head Trauma: A Knock on the Head Leading to FTD
It’s well-known that a blow to the head can have dire consequences, but few realize it can set the stage for FTD. Emerging research suggests that traumatic brain injury (TBI), especially repeated injuries, may increase the risk of developing FTD later in life.
The exact mechanism linking head trauma and FTD remains elusive, but some theories are gaining ground. One proposes that injury may trigger an abnormal response in Tau proteins, leading them to form neurofibrillary tangles and set off the FTD cascade.
Another theory revolves around inflammation. Following a head injury, the brain responds by triggering an inflammatory response. While this is initially protective, chronic inflammation can turn destructive, potentially leading to neuronal damage and setting the stage for FTD.
The link between TBI and FTD also brings to the fore the issue of brain health in contact sports and military combat, areas where head injuries are commonplace. It underscores the importance of protective measures in these sectors to safeguard individuals from the long-term risks of TBI. (5)
