Richard Hammond fears brain injury could cause early-onset dementia

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 1 Nov, 17:02 · Archive

Richard Hammond has revealed concerns that a brain injury from a 2006 crash could lead to early-onset dementia.

Richard Hammond has revealed concerns that a brain injury from a 2006 jet-powered dragster crash could lead to early-onset dementia. The former Top Gear presenter was put in a coma following the crash, which occurred when the vehicle reached 320mph. Speaking to the High Performance podcast, Hammond said: 'The brain injury is with me forever, probably, and I do worry that it will lead to early-onset dementia. I very much hope not, but it's entirely possible that it could.'

Hammond admitted he has not sought medical assessment for his brain health out of fear. He said: 'I'm scared to death to do it. But I absolutely should. I'm honestly too scared.' He acknowledged experiencing memory lapses but suggested these may be attributable to his age rather than the injury, saying: 'I do lose stuff a lot, I do forget stuff, but that's probably because I'm 56 and not concentrating.'

Last month marked the 20th anniversary of the crash. Hammond described the incident as resulting from a front tyre blowout on the dragster, which left him unable to avoid the collision despite his efforts to steer away and deploy the parachute.

How it is being reported

• Richard Hammond, 56, opens up in honest admission on healthRichard Hammond has opened up on his health in an honest admission.Oxford Mail · 1 Nov, 16:00
• Richard Hammond, 56, opens up in honest admission on healthRichard Hammond has opened up on his health in an honest admission.Oxfordshire Guardian · 1 Nov, 16:00

In this story: Richard Hammond · Jeremy Clarkson · James May · Top Gear · BBC · Oxfordshire

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