Breast health knowledge and awareness among stakeholders in women’s rugby

This study interviewed stakeholders involved with women’s Rugby in Ireland consisting of male and female coaches (n= 5), physiotherapists (n =3), strength and conditioning coaches (n =3) and female players (n =3) on their knowledge and awareness of breast health issues. The findings indicate overall limited breast health knowledge and awareness amongst interviewees. Breast health issues can have potential future health complications such as fat necrosis or tissue scaring. The primary barrier to reporting breast health issues ascertained was due to the sensitive nature of the topic. The results further highlighted a lack of reporting pathways and treatment options for breast health problems among support staff overall. Additionally, this study indicates that current breast protective measures were not evidence-based, requiring further research. The findings underscored the need for targeted education, preferably by a female educator, on breast health issues for female players, coaches, and support staff, and tailored to stakeholder preferences to improve efficacy