Concussion awareness fails to translate into safe behaviour in amateur rugby

Abstract

A concussion is a form of traumatic brain injury and is prevalent in high-contact sports like rugby league and rugby union. Despite growing awareness of the risks of concussion, a gap persists between knowledge and the behaviours surrounding reporting and management. This study captured the knowledge and awareness of concussion among amateur rugby players using an online questionnaire-based survey. One hundred and four participants completed the questionnaire. The majority (83%) played rugby union. The findings revealed a good understanding of concussion, with most participants identifying symptoms and recognising concussion as an injury. However, 26% would continue playing despite suspecting a concussion, and 14% were uncertain about reporting it. Male players were more likely to exhibit risky behaviours, including continuing to play (30%) and returning to play prematurely (45%) after concussion, compared to females (12% and 19%, respectively). These gender differences suggest that females demonstrate better knowledge of concussion and safer behaviours. Participants consistently used non-medical terminology to describe concussions, potentially trivialising the injury, which may contribute to low reporting rates. Coaches were the primary point of contact for reporting concussions (68%), emphasising their critical role in player safety. Notably, only 4% of players would report a concussion to a doctor, reflecting limited access to medical care at the amateur level. This study highlights a disconnect between knowledge of concussion, attitudes and reporting behaviours, aligning with prior research in rugby. It emphasises the urgent need for improved education on concussion, adherence to protocols, and better support systems, particularly for amateur male players.