Australian researchers have been able to diagnose chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in a woman for the first time, but not without a tragic backstory.

Former AFLW player Heather Anderson tragically took her own life in November last year; her family donated the 28-year-old’s brain to researchers with the hope better understanding why she died.

La Trobe University researcher Professor Alan Pearce co-wrote the study, and told Gary Adshead on 6PR Mornings it’s a significant step in understanding the effects of contact sport on women’s brains.

“She had an 18-year career of contact sports, so that would be one of the indicators of risk of CTE,” Professor Pearce said.

Press PLAY to hear more about the groundbreaking research

If you or anyone you know is facing mental health issues, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.

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