Sport-related concussion knowledge and attitudes among football players and coaches in Ghana and medical professionals in Nigeria: a cross-sectional study

The purpose of this study was to evaluate sport-related concussion (SRC) knowledge and attitudes of football players and coaches in Ghana, and the experience, management practices, and awareness of guidelines in medical professionals in Nigeria. A cross-sectional questionnaire, incorporating the Rosenbaum Concussion Knowledge and Attitudes Survey and a questionnaire for medical professionals, was completed by 182 football players, 45 football coaches, and 80 medical professionals. Concussion knowledge was poor to moderate among players (40 ± 10%) and moderate among coaches (49 ± 10%), while attitudes were generally positive (61 ± 7% and 62 ± 7%, respectively). Symptom recognition was low among players, with only 11-42% identifying most symptoms, except headache (91%). Coaches recognised more concussion signs and symptoms (50-98%), although dizziness, light sensitivity, and feeling in a fog were identified by fewer than half. Responses to SRC knowledge statements indicated that many respondents answered incorrectly (16 to 75%). Safe responses to various scenarios ranged from 21% to 62%, while unsafe responses ranged from 19% to 60% across both groups. Among medical professionals, 14% had received formal concussion training and 3% SRC training; 96% believed it should be included in professional education. Most medical professionals (>80%) reported good management practices, although confidence in providing discharge advice was low, and awareness of concussion guidelines was low (<20%). These findings highlight the need to improve concussion knowledge and attitudes among players and coaches in Ghana, and to enhance education, awareness, and management medical professionals in Nigeria through structured education and guideline dissemination.