The work of radiologists and other physicians often makes an impact in unexpected ways. For example, the popularity of flag football is booming throughout the United States, and one significant contributor to that trend appears to be cautious parents who want their children to avoid concussions and other safety issues associated with traditional football.

The rules of flag football closely mirror regular football, of course, except for one key difference: There’s no contact.

“Flag leagues around the country are growing at a rapid pace, including co-ed leagues with players ranging from age six to 14, over-35 leagues for adults, and unified leagues, as well,” writer Griffin Clark explained in a recent profile for Sports Illustrated for Kids. “Because of safety concerns, particularly awareness of the dangers of concussions, parents may not allow their kids to join local Pop Warner football leagues or high school programs. Instead, kids can redirect their football-playing interests towards a flag league.”

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