Growth Hormone Low in Many Boxers

Boxers may have high rates of growth hormone deficiency, a study has found. Researchers said this probably is caused by repeated head trauma. The study examined 61 boxers from the national team of Turkey. Of these, 44 still competed and 17 were retired. About 1 in 7 boxers had low levels of growth hormone. Among retired boxers, about half had this problem. Growth hormone is produced by the pituitary gland. Low levels can cause loss of strength, muscle and stamina. This problem also can affect memory and mood. Reuters Health news service wrote about the study June 2. It was published in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine.