201. The relationships between rugby union, and health and well-being: a scoping review.
- Author
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Griffin SA, Panagodage Perera NK, Murray A, Hartley C, Fawkner SG, P T Kemp S, Stokes KA, and Kelly P
- Subjects
- Athletic Injuries epidemiology, Brain Injuries epidemiology, Football injuries, Humans, Mental Health, Physical Fitness, Research, Sports for Persons with Disabilities physiology, Sports for Persons with Disabilities psychology, Football physiology, Football psychology
- Abstract
Objective: To scope the relationships between rugby union, and health and well-being., Design: Scoping review., Data Sources: Published and unpublished reports of any age, identified by searching electronic databases, platforms and reference lists., Methods: A three-step search strategy identified relevant published primary, secondary studies and grey literature, which were screened using a priori inclusion criteria. Data were extracted using a standardised tool, to form (1) a numerical analysis and (2) a thematic summary., Results and Discussion: 6658 records were identified, and 198 studies met the inclusion criteria. All forms of rugby union can provide health-enhancing physical activity (PA). 'Non-contact' and wheelchair rugby in particular provide a wide range of physical and mental health and well-being benefits. The evidence is either mixed or unclear in relation to 'contact' rugby union and its effects on a range of physical health domains. Injury and concussion incidence rates are high for contact rugby union relative to other sports., Conclusions: A wide range of stakeholders as well as existing and potential participants can use this information to make a more informed decision about participating in and promoting rugby union as a health-enhancing activity. Industry and policy-makers can use this review to inform policies and strategies that look to increase participation rates and use rugby union as a vehicle to contribute positively to population health. Further research understanding rugby union's contribution to PA as well as to muscle-strengthening and balance is indicated, as well as research examining more health and well-being outcomes across more diverse cohorts., Competing Interests: Competing interests: SAG receives remuneration for clinical work in professional rugby union, and is employed by the Rugby Football Union as a Sports Medicine Training Fellow. AM receives remuneration from Scottish Rugby Union for clinical work. SK is employed by the Rugby Football Union as medical services director. KAS is employed by the Rugby Football Union as medical research lead., (© Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2021. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.)
- Published
- 2021
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