Army studies its highest-risk group _ bomb technicians _ for effects of repeated concussions
Soldiers at Fort Campbell who specialize in finding and clearing bombs are undergoing cognitive testing in a first-of-its kind study of mild traumatic brain injury.
The soldiers of the 52nd Ordnance Group will be tracked during their upcoming Afghanistan deployment for concussions and head injuries to look for effects on brain functions.
Officials at Fort Campbell say the group's work finding and destroying such deadly weapons in Afghanistan makes its members the ideal patients for the study of mild brain injuries.
The Army has also released new rules that require soldiers near blasts or in vehicle rollovers to undergo medical evaluations for concussions and be given time to rest before returning to duty.
Copyright 2010 AP News
