Breast Injury Research in Rugby
INJURIES & IMPACTS
In a 2024 study of eight female sports codes, Rugby (Union, League and Sevens) had the highest occurrence rate of breast injuries at 62.0%, with 56.0% of injuries coming from contact with another player. (3)
PERFORMANCE EFFECTS
In the 2024 study, between 18.2% and 48% of the participants reported that breast injuries negatively affected their performance. (3)
A HIDDEN PROBLEM
In a 2023 survey of Australian female community-based rugby union athletes, none of the breast injuries were reported to either medical or coaching staff (2).
In the same survey, half of the coaches and medical professionals surveyed were not aware that breast injuries were a problem for female players (1).
In the 2024 Rugby study, only 2.1% of breast injuries were reported for treatment. (3)
NEED FOR PROTECTION
In a 2023 study, breast protective garments were worn by only 11% of 51 community-based Rugby union athletes. (2)
The 2024 study concluded, there are serious consequences for athletes, and responsible reporting, treatment and education are a priority. (3)
1. Brisbine BR, Steele JR, McGhee DE, Phillips E. Breast injuries reported by female contact football players based on football code, player position and competition level. Sci Med Footb. 2020;4(2):148-155.
2. Dang R, Stay S, McGhee D. Breast injuries and breast protection and breast pain and breast support in community-based female rugby union athletes. J Sci Med Sport. 2023;26:S157-S158.3.
3. Bibby K, Kenny IC, Cahalan R, Purtill H, Comyns TM. Contact BreastInjuries Among Female Athletes: A Systematic Review. Sports Med. 2024Jul;54(7):1921-1930.