FIFA and WHO Launch “Suspect and Protect” Concussion Awareness Campaign
FIFA, in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO), is launching a new concussion awareness campaign called “Suspect and Protect: No Match is Worth the Risk.” This initiative, announced at the IFAB AGM in March 2024, aims to enhance awareness about concussion as a serious brain injury that affects players on the field.
Campaign Goals and Resources
The “Suspect and Protect” campaign is designed to improve recognition of concussion signs and symptoms among players, coaches, medical staff, and the general public. Concussions can take up to 72 hours for symptoms to manifest, and the campaign offers crucial guidance on safe return-to-play practices after a suspected or confirmed concussion. It includes tailored resources for national teams, professional clubs, leagues, and grassroots communities.
The campaign will be promoted globally through FIFA’s channels, with toolkits distributed to FIFA Member Associations for implementation at national, regional, and local levels.
Statements from Leaders
FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized the importance of recognizing and treating concussions properly: “Concussion is a brain injury and should always be taken seriously. Playing football should be safe for everyone, everywhere. By understanding the signs and risks, and treating concussions correctly, we prioritize player safety.”
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus highlighted the broader impact: “Concussion is a significant public health issue across all levels of football and many other sports. WHO is proud to collaborate with FIFA on this campaign to protect the brains of footballers worldwide.”
Key Actions for Concussion Awareness
- Be Aware: Understand that a concussion is a serious brain injury. Learn to recognize common signs of concussion and know when to seek urgent medical advice.
- Suspect: Assess anyone who experiences a head, face, neck, or body impact for concussion symptoms. These symptoms may not appear immediately and can include headaches, nausea, dizziness, blurred vision, sensitivity to light or noise, memory issues, and confusion.
- Protect: If symptoms are present, the player should leave the field immediately and see a doctor within 24 hours. Concussion symptoms can evolve, and players should follow medical advice for return-to-play protocols. Remember, no match is worth risking health.
Additional Information
“Suspect and Protect” will be available in Arabic, English, French, German, Portuguese (Brazilian), and Spanish. The WHO continues to work globally on brain health, focusing on policy strengthening, service delivery, research, and increased investment to support optimal brain function and neurological health across all life stages.
