Concussion reporting, knowledge and attitudes in Irish amateur gaelic games athletes

Abstract

ObjectivesTo examine self-reported concussion history, knowledge and attitudes towards concussion reporting and education in Irish adult Gaelic games players. DesignCross-sectional survey. SettingData were collected using an online survey instrument. ParticipantsTwo hundred and sixteen adult Gaelic games athletes (106 male, 110 female). Main outcome measuresSelf-reported concussion history for the previous season, reporting history for participants’ most recent concussion, concussion knowledge, willingness to report future concussions in a variety of situations and desire for further concussion education. ResultsSeventy-three percent of participants suspected they had sustained a concussion in the past. Most (72.2%) informed someone of their most recent concussion, although two-thirds continued to play during their most recent concussion. Participants had a good overall understanding of concussion, although concussion knowledge score was not associated with safer behaviour following participants’ most recent concussion. While most agreed that concussion is a serious injury (95.8%), 46.8% would not report a concussion during important games. ConclusionsThe high proportion of participants playing following concussion and their reluctance to report concussions during important games is concerning. Interventions aimed at improving attitudes towards concussion reporting among athletes and other stakeholders are required to improve concussion management in amateur Gaelic games athletes.