A recent study analyzing concussion data for NFL players (during the 16-game regular-season schedules for 2012 and 2013) may provide insight that could lead to better concussion-prevention strategies. The study found that football players are 30-percent less likely to sustain concussions when playing at higher altitudes. The combined odds of concussion during a game in nine NFL cities (with altitudes ranging from 644 to 5,192 feet above sea level) were 30-percent less than in the 23 other cities with NFL teams. Many football-related concussions are suspected to be caused by “brain slosh,” because the brain doesn’t fit tightly inside the skull and rapid acceleration/deceleration of the head puts the brain at risk for a “slosh-induced” injury. Because cerebral blood flow rises at higher altitudes, causing the brain to fit tighter inside the skull, the risk of concussion decreases. To find out more about this study, click here.