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Senators applaud FTC action against false claims by Brain-Pad maker

By Ramsey Cox - 08/16/12 04:11 PM ET

Sens. Jay Rockefeller (D-W.Va.) and Tom Udall (D-N.M.) commended the Federal Trade Commission Thursday for taking action against a company that made false marketing claims about its product's ability to reduce the risk of concussions.

"I applaud the FTC for taking action to stop Brain-Pad from making marketing claims about whether their mouth guards can reduce the risk of concussions," Rockefeller said in a statement Thursday. “It is disturbing that certain sports equipment manufacturers could be exploiting parents' concerns to make a profit. I hope this action by the FTC will send a message to other companies that they can't use claims that aren't backed by science."

The FTC ruling means that Brian-Pad Inc. will no longer be able to make claims that its products reduce the risk of concussion without conducting a scientific study that proves those claims.

"Increased awareness of the dangers associated with sports concussions is extremely important," said Udall. "But as the Brain-Pad settlement proves, some companies seem to be taking advantage of the fears of parents, coaches and athletes. The real danger behind anti-concussion marketing claims is in giving young athletes and their parents a false sense of security.”

Udall introduced the Children's Sports Athletic Equipment Safety Act, S. 601, which would increase potential penalties for companies using false injury prevention claims to sell helmets and other sports equipment. The bill would also ensure that new and reconditioned football helmets for high school and younger players meet safety standards that address concussion risks for young athletes.

"Concussions are a very serious health concern, especially for young athletes, and it is important that athletes, parents and coaches know the truth about the limitations of sports equipment in preventing concussions,” Rockefeller said.

Democratic Sens. Richard Blumenthal (Conn.), Frank Lautenberg (N.J.) and Charles Schumer (N.Y.) are all co-sponsors of Udall's bill.


Source:
http://thehill.com/blogs/floor-action/senate/244017-senators-applaud-ftc-action-against-a-companys-false-claims-on-concussion-prevention

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