UCC study: Only 1 in 7 inter-county footballers stop playing after signs of concussion

Researchers claim 'a deep-rooted culture that promotes toughness' in the sport could be adding to the problem

Researchers analysed a total of 242 potential concussive events which occurred during 111 National League and All-Ireland championship fixtures played in 2018 and 2019. Picture: Pat Murphy / SPORTSFILE

Only 1 in 7 of all GAA inter-county players who displayed one or more recognised medical signs of concussion while playing a competitive Gaelic football match were withdrawn from taking any further part in a game, according to a new study.

Researchers at University College of Cork’s School of Medicine found the vast majority of Gaelic footballers who suffer possible concussion only receive a brief examination and almost always return to play without a standardised assessment of their condition.