PEOPLE can improve their health and wellbeing by playing rugby union, according to a new study.

Research by the University of Edinburgh has found the sport comes with several health benefits despite the risks associated with it.

These include reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, some cancers, stroke, heart disease and depression, a paper published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine suggests. Improved muscle function, bone health and balance are other potential health gains listed in the study.

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have found enhanced cardiovascular, respiratory and metabolic function are further possible health dividends.

Players of touch, tag and wheelchair rugby appear to benefit most, the study states.

Evidence of positive health outcomes among those playing contact forms of rugby union such as 15-a-side and sevens is less clear.

The study, funded by the Rugby Football Union in collaboration with the Scottish Rugby Union, seeks to provide a more balanced perspective on the benefits and risks.

With eight million players in 120 countries, rugby union plays a vital role in helping the global population meet the World Health Organisation’s physical activity goals, the study states.