After recent reports of dozens of former Australian footballers diagnosed with chronic traumatic encephalopathy and the death of 27-year-old footballer Nathan Fitzgerald from an on-field brain injury, many parents are wondering whether they should let their kids play footy.

As a parent of two young boys, I have asked myself the same question. As an epidemiologist who is researching concussion in kids, I let data and the precautionary principle guide my actions. Here’s how I think about it.

The benefits of participating in sport and physical activity are undeniable.

There are physical benefits:

increased cardiovascular fitness, which lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers

increased cardiovascular fitness, which lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers

musculoskeletal strength, which lowers the risk of osteoporosis

musculoskeletal strength, which lowers the risk of osteoporosis

motor skills, which lower the risk of falls.

motor skills, which lower the risk of falls.

There are mental benefits such as better mood, cognition and resilience.

There are also social benefits such as improved communication, cooperation and teamwork.

The challenge for parents is to make choices that maximise these benefits and minimise the harms.

Deaths are rare but make........

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