WHO, FIFA say concussions in sport are a major health concern
The issue has been raised as the two organisations formed a partnership this week and launched a Global Concussion Awareness Campaign in Zurich, Switzerland.
soccer ball / Pixabay: AnnRos
CAPE TOWN - The World Health Organization (WHO) and FIFA said concussions in sport are a major health concern that requires greater awareness and action.
The issue has been raised as the two organisations formed a partnership this week and launched a Global Concussion Awareness Campaign in Zurich, Switzerland.
The campaign aims to educate the sports community about the dangers and risks of concussions worldwide.
Research by Concussion South Africa reveals that in the United States (US), at least 1.2 million concussions occur in contact and collision sports annually.
The research shows that in South Africa, at least 10% to 15% of high school rugby players will suffer a concussion each season.
Western Cape’s Stormers Rugby team doctor, Dr Raaghib Fredericks, said, "As professional sportsmen are starting to become more aware of injuries that have occurred or certain conditions that may not have been sure of before, now there's a bigger wealth of information if that makes sense. You know, get with the times, stay on top of information, and keep educating our athletes so that we are making informed decisions."
The two global bodies will also deliver educational resources to all FIFA channels worldwide to educate players about the risks and dangers of concussions.