Sport-and Nonsport-Related Concussion Reporting Behaviors of Emerging Adults Participating in Organized Sport

This study examined concussion-related outcomes among emerging adults (18–24 years) who participated in organized sport and are at risk for both sport-related concussion (SRC) and non-SRC. An online survey on SRC/non-SRC history and reporting behaviors grouped a convenience sample of 146 individuals as: no concussion history, those with only SRCs, and those with ≥1 non-SRC (including those with and without SRCs). Participants also noted whether ≥1 concussions were sustained with medical presence or had delayed reporting to someone in authority (e.g., medical professional, coach, and parent). No differences by concussion history were observed. However, among those with both SRC and non-SRC (n = 20), there were higher odds of ≥1 SRC versus ≥1 non-SRC occurring with medical presence (McNemar odds ratio = 12.0, 95% confidence interval [1.6, 92.3]) and having delayed reporting (McNemar odds ratio = 5.0, 95% confidence interval [0.6, 42.8]). Findings highlight the need for multiple pathways to help at-risk individuals report and seek care for concussions.