In recent months and years, football concussions have been at the fore and in the spotlight of the head injury buzz, given that football players were the ones to bring attention to the long-term problems that head injuries cause.

But a recent study suggests that the number of serious head injuries in mixed martial arts participants could double those of pro football players.

Concerned about the risks and the lack of data on the subject of brain injury in MMA, a group of researchers conducted a study by watching footage of over 800 matches. They counted both the knockouts and the technical knockouts (when the referee decides that the player is too dazed to continue). They also compared the information to statistics about the competitors to determine risk factors.

They found that 12.7 percent of matches ended with contestants suffering a knockout, and 19 percent of matches ended with a technical knockout. In short, almost one third of matches ended as a result of head injury.

So, as in many sports of late, talk has begun about the possibility of changing rules in order to better protect athletes’ heads, especially with its recent explosion of popularity. Due to its inherently rough and physical if not violent nature, there is even talk of banning all children from participation.

The numbers are staggering and concerning, a harsh reminder of the risks inherent in contact sports, so no matter what your sport of choice, remember to play it safer and protect your head.

*Scientists have no conclusive evidence as to whether or how the reduction of g-forces during impacts reduces the number or degree of concussions and head injuries. GelDefender products provide supplemental padding as well as cooling and comfort benefits when used with helmets and caps. Participants in activities in which head impacts can occur should always use tested and approved helmets for protection. However, no helmet or supplemental padding can protect the user from all serious head or neck injuries that can result from impacts.