RFU plans pitch-side saliva test trial to address concussion

by The TRU Team Wednesday 30 August 2017

A new study hopes to develop a pitch-side saliva test for concussion

©PA

Players from Aviva Premiership and RFU Championship will be part of the pitch-side saliva test trial in the upcoming season that is aimed at diagnosing concussion.

The study that is led by the University of Birmingham will be in collaboration with the Rugby Football Union, Premiership Rugby and the Rugby Players' Association is also planned on guiding the return to play protocols.

"There is currently no reliable or proven biomarker or objective test for the diagnosis of concussion," RFU chief medical officer Dr Simon Kemp said.

"This lack of objectivity is the biggest challenge facing medical professionals in dealing with this type of injury.

"While very much an exploratory piece of research, this is a project that has the potential to make a very significant impact on the diagnosis and management of players following concussion."

If proved successful, the study could be extended to the other sports and front-line medics in the NHS and military.