Female Breast Health In Athletes: An Interprofessional Healthcare Provider Framework

Female Breast Health in Athletes: An Interprofessional Healthcare Provider Framework Breast injuries related to motor vehicle collisions, seat belt trauma, and blunt trauma during sports participation have been reported. The exact sequelae of breast injury are unknown; however, a relationship between breast injury and fat necrosis, which mimics breast carcinoma, is documented outside of sports participation. Inclusion of this sensitive topic and a change in the culture for women in sports is warranted to advance women’s breast health. PURPOSE: To explore an interprofessional provider framework for the management of breast health in female athletes of all ages. METHODS: Commonly, physical therapists, athletic trainers, sports medicine physicians, and strength and conditioning experts oversee the management of female athletes. A team of health providers should be identified and commit to advancing the care for female athletes. This team would develop a framework that provides seamless oversight of female athletes. This framework should include, at a minimum:- Conducting educational sessions to provide foundational knowledge regarding breast health and breast injuries.- Identifying interprofessional roles and responsibilities RESULTS: To raise awareness and create an interprofessional culture for education, reporting, triaging, and treatment of breast health/injury and create a requirement that NCAA Injury Reporting include female breast injury. Furthermore, members of the care team need to be able to make recommendations on the needs of female athletes regarding bra fit and breast protection. CONCLUSION: Presently, female breast injury during sport participation is critically underreported and without any evidenced based treatment protocols. The framework presented here provides a starting point for revolutionizing female health care.