This video can not be played Dementia diagnosis 'shock' for Payton "I still love the game. All ex-footballers do. We all love the game, but I just want this sorting out if possible and for anybody who has got this diagnosis to get help." Earlier this year, at the age of just 57, Andy Payton was diagnosed with dementia. The former Burnley, Celtic, Barnsley, Hull City, Huddersfield and Middlesbrough striker scored over 200 goals in well over 500 appearances during his career in football. He has now been told that his career is the cause of his diagnosis. In a candid interview with BBC Radio Lancashire, Payton talked about being told he had dementia, his thoughts on the game's attitude to heading the ball, and where he goes from here. Payton's initial symptoms gave the impression something was wrong. When fellow former Hull City trainee Dean Windass came out earlier this year to say he had received a diagnosis of dementia at the age of 56, Payton felt encouraged to get checked himself. "I was having symptoms such as bad headaches, forgetfulness, but for someone in their mid-50s probably a bit too much," he said. "The headaches were an issue and still are a little bit, but I knew that something didn't feel right. When I knew Deano had been diagnosed I thought I'd go and get checked out. I could either get told 'you're OK' or that 'there's a problem here'." After a brain scan, Payton received the news he had been diagnosed with early-onset dementia. The scale of the damage to his brain and what the future might hold were particularly concerning to hear. "It's hard to put into words," he said. "Things that were on the tip of your tongue just would not come out. "Going off what they've said, out of the 60 tracts in my brain, 27 were damaged. You lose connection, as it were. I'm OK now, but it's for further down the line the fear comes in a little bit." Would he have got tested were it not for Windass going public? Payton does not think so. "I wouldn't, I don't think, because I didn't know that you could potentially have tests," he said. "Me and Deano were 16-year-olds at Hull City together so I knew him. I thought it made sense to get tested." Andy Payton scored 81 goals in 178 appearances for Burnley Payton was told his career in football and the frequency with which he headed the ball was the cause of his diagnosis. In his playing days, Payton was a prolific striker, scoring 81 goals for Burnley as well as having impressive records in front of goal for Hull, Barnsley and Celtic. To reach the level he did, however, came with hard work in training which decades after his retirement have had their effect. "I was in a bit of shock to begin with. Dementia and being 57 don't go hand in hand," he said. "They explained it was from the impact of heading the ball. I knew that the position I played in and the training sessions we did, I was heading the ball 200 times in a session. "From 16 years old, [there was] non-stop repetition, session after session, and that's where it's come from." Off the back of the diagnosis, Payton's impression on how heading the ball is handled has changed. "If you were to say to me now 'should kids head the ball?' I'd say no. I think they've stopped it at under-11s and even in training now they're limiting it. I agree with that. "Because it's not about now, it's about what it could potentially develop into." Football has changed in the period between Payton's retirement and his diagnosis, and there is more awareness in 2025 of the possible dangers of heading the ball. Asked whether he was told about the risks when he was playing, Payton said: "Not at all. "I loved my career and I wouldn't want to change much about it. Playing for Burnley and Celtic and especially my hometown club... but I'd be thinking twice because this is where I am in life now. If it could have been limited, if we could have known - but we do know now and things have got to be done." Awareness is one thing. But can the football industry do more to support former players who are now receiving diagnoses similar to Windass and Payton? The Football Families for Justice (FFJ) campaign, led by John Stiles, the son of England World Cup winner Nobby Stiles, is a voluntary organisation dedicated to championing the rights and wellbeing of former players with neuro-degenerative diseases. Former Manchester United midfielder Stiles, who died in 2020, had prostate cancer and advanced dementia. His brain was diagnosed as having chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) - a form of degenerative disease dementia believed to be caused by repeated blows. Asked how much responsibility the football industry should take for the health of former players, Payton said: "It's massive. I think they certainly should do more. "Jimmy Robson, who used to be my coach at Burnley, hepassed through dementia. John Stiles' dad was a World Cup winner and you can't get higher than that in football. And he wasn't looked after properly. That should come into it. "Football and the billions of pounds around it... They should look after players that have got this because it's come through football and nothing else." The BBC Action Line offers resources and advice on dementia.
Ex-Burnley striker Payton on dementia diagnosis
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Andy Payton Discusses Early-Onset Dementia Diagnosis and Its Link to Football"
Bbc News
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TruthLens AI Summary
Andy Payton, a former football striker known for his time at clubs like Burnley, Celtic, and Hull City, has been diagnosed with early-onset dementia at the age of 57. The diagnosis, which he described as a 'shock', came after he experienced concerning symptoms such as persistent headaches and forgetfulness. Payton was motivated to seek medical advice after hearing about fellow player Dean Windass's own dementia diagnosis. Following a brain scan, he learned that 27 out of the 60 tracts in his brain were damaged, which he attributes to the repetitive heading of the ball during his extensive football career. Despite the initial shock of his diagnosis, Payton remains passionate about the sport and is now advocating for better awareness and support for former players facing similar health issues.
In his candid interview, Payton expressed his concerns about the long-term effects of heading the ball, reflecting on how football has evolved regarding player safety since his playing days. He now believes that children under the age of 11 should not head the ball and supports the measures being taken to limit heading in training. Payton also highlighted the need for the football industry to take greater responsibility for the health of former players, citing examples of other footballers who have suffered from neuro-degenerative diseases. He called for more support for players diagnosed with conditions like dementia, emphasizing that the football community should be proactive in ensuring the well-being of its past athletes. The Football Families for Justice campaign, which advocates for the rights of former players, echoes Payton's sentiments about the need for increased awareness and support from the sport's governing bodies.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article sheds light on the recent dementia diagnosis of former footballer Andy Payton, highlighting both personal struggles and broader implications for the sport. It serves to raise awareness about the health risks associated with heading the ball in football and the need for better support systems for players suffering from similar conditions.
Purpose of the Publication
The main objective behind publishing this article appears to be raising awareness about the long-term health impacts of professional football, particularly concerning neurological conditions like dementia. By sharing Payton's story, the article aims to foster a conversation about player health and the responsibilities of sports organizations in providing care and support.
Public Perception
This article seeks to generate empathy and concern among the public regarding the health risks faced by former footballers. It encourages readers to consider the impact of sports on mental health, thereby shaping a more informed public opinion on the importance of medical checks and support for athletes.
Potential Concealments
While the article primarily focuses on Payton's diagnosis, it may also suggest a broader reluctance within the football community to fully address and acknowledge the risks associated with heading the ball. By spotlighting individual cases, it could be inferred that there might be systemic issues that remain unaddressed.
Truthfulness of the Article
The information appears to be credible, as it features a personal account from Payton and references his experiences. The inclusion of medical terminology regarding his diagnosis lends further authenticity, suggesting that the article is based on factual evidence.
Societal Implications
The discussion surrounding player health and safety could lead to stronger advocacy for regulations related to heading in football. This may prompt changes in training protocols, increased funding for research into sports-related brain injuries, and a push for better medical care for former players.
Target Audience
This article resonates particularly with sports enthusiasts, health advocates, and families of athletes. By sharing personal stories, it aims to connect with individuals who may have had similar experiences or concerns regarding health issues in sports.
Economic Impact
While the immediate effects on stock markets or global economies may be minimal, this issue could influence investments in health-related initiatives within sports. Companies involved in sports medicine, protective gear, or player welfare could potentially see increased interest and investment.
Relevance in the Global Context
The topic of athlete health is increasingly relevant in today's discussions about sports. With ongoing debates about player safety in various sports, this article contributes to a significant discourse on the responsibilities of sports organizations and the need for reform.
Use of AI in Writing
Although it is not explicitly stated, the article may have benefited from AI tools for drafting and editing. Such tools can enhance readability and ensure clarity in conveying complex medical information, although the personal narrative remains authentic to Payton's voice.
Manipulative Elements
While the article is not overtly manipulative, it could be argued that it strategically emphasizes emotional aspects of Payton's story to highlight broader issues. This approach could be seen as a way to galvanize public support for changes in sports health policies.
In summary, the article provides a vital perspective on the intersection of sports and health, urging both the public and sports organizations to engage in meaningful dialogue regarding player welfare and the long-term effects of football.