The hits you receive cause brain cells to die. Your brain being your most valuable asset, generally speaking, but even more so for intellectual work such as programming, you may want to switch to a no-contact martial art (such as kung-fu).
In normal, competitive boxing, the risks are when fighters become dehydrated and sustain concussion, but keep going the full 12 odd rounds.
If you don't want to get better at fighting, might as well learn ballet, or go running.
Your point about head concussion from extensive boxing practice is a good one.