A recent survey suggests that more than one in three water polo players have suffered concussions during games or practice.

According to the poll conducted by UC Irvine, goalies in particular are at risk, with 47 percent reporting having received concussions. Additionally, more women reported at least one concussion than men (43.5 percent and 30.8 percent respectively of the 1,500 who completed the survey).

Since water polo boasts fewer athletes than football or hockey, it is often overlooked, resulting in less attention to the wellbeing of its players. But clearly concussions are more prevalent in the sport than was previously realized. If a third of the players sustain concussions (to say nothing of those who weren’t diagnosed), better head protection and safer play strategies need to be implemented, and those involved need to learn how to spot and properly handle concussions once they occur.

This survey is a wake-up call; water polo as a sport needs to heed it.

*Scientists have no conclusive evidence as to whether or how the reduction of g-forces during impacts reduces the number or degree of concussions and head injuries. GelDefender products provide supplemental padding as well as cooling and comfort benefits when used with helmets and caps. Participants in activities in which head impacts can occur should always use tested and approved helmets for protection. However, no helmet or supplemental padding can protect the user from all serious head or neck injuries that can result from impacts.