Preliminary findings from an Australian study indicate traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), including concussions, may trigger lasting brain changes detectable decades later, even in healthy adults.

Researchers from Adelaide University observed higher mood dysfunction scores, reduced white matter integrity across multiple brain areas, diminished sense of smell, along with autonomic and gastrointestinal changes among TBI participants compared to controls.

These symptoms are associated with an increased risk of Parkinson's disease later in life, the statement said.

The ongoing trial, with over 600 participants, aims to identify mechanisms heightening risks for dementia or Parkinson's, as TBI is linked to 15 percent of dementias, the researchers said on Monday, February 23.

Even a single TBI raises Parkinson's risk by more than 50 percent, they added.