As head injury concerns linger, Boston cardiologist named NFL medical adviser

Elizabeth G. Nabel, MD, president of Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, has been named the first chief medical adviser for the National Football League (NFL).

Nabel, a cardiologist, was named to the post by NFL Commissioner Roger Goddell and will provide advice on the league’s medical and scientific programs being implemented to improve the safety and health of its players.

Player safety has been an ongoing concern in the league—especially as the long-term effects of concussions and other injuries are now coming to light in recent neuroimaging studies.

For more on head injuries and football, read the recent Health Imaging editorial “The big issue still looming over the big game.”