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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Benjamin Goddard

Ex-Wales star calls on pro rugby players to get brain scans as he battles dementia

Former Wales international Alix Popham wants professional rugby players to have yearly brain scans so damage can be uncovered before it's too late.

The former back-row, who made 33 appearances for his country, was diagnosed with early-onset dementia and probable Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) two years ago. The 42-year-old is one of over 200 former stars involved in a lawsuit against the game's authorities and is a leading a group demanding better protection for current players.

Popham wants annual brain scans to be included in full fitness tests the game's professionals undergo to spot any other issues with their body.

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