Boxing participation by children and adolescents

Question 1

Which organizations recommend banning boxing?

Answer 1

American Medical Association (2007), AAP (1997), Australian Medical Association (2007), British Medical Association (2007), Canadian Medical Association (2002), and World Medical Association (2005)

Question 2

What is the prevalence of admission to hospital from combat sports?

Answer 2

1. Boxing 4.8%
2. Judo 3.6%
3. Karate 3.1%
4. Wrestling 2.9%

Question 3

What injuries typically occur in boxing?

Answer 3

Head, face and neck injuries. Concussion is the most common.

Question 4

What are the concussion rate for boxing?

Answer 4

0. 58 per 100 athlete exposures boxing
1. 28 per 100 athlete exposures in hockey
2. 38 per 100 athlete exposures in rugby

Question 5

What is the risk of chronic traumatic encephalopathy in boxing?

Answer 5

Risk is present but difficult to determine if it is less now due to shorter careers and fewer bouts and maybe low in amateur boxers. Repeated concussions do reduce attention and concentration.

Question 6

What are the risks of weight classifications?

Answer 6

Boxers use voluntary dehydration practices to make weight

1. Fluid restriction
2. Diuretics and laxatives
3. Rubber suits
4. Saunas and steam baths

Question 7

What are the CPS recommendations?

Answer 7

1. Vigorously oppose boxing as a sport for any child or adolescent
2. Educate patients as well as parents/caregivers of the medical risks of boxing
3. Encourage young athletes to participate in alternative sports where intentional blows to the head are not central to the sport
4. Advocate that boxing organizations ensure that appropriate medical care is provided for boxers including preparticipation medical examinations, regular neurocognitive testing and ophthalmologic examinations, and medical coverage at events