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Berger K, Schiefner F, Rudolf M, Awiszus F, Junne F, Vogel M, Lohmann CH. Long-term effects of doping with anabolic steroids during adolescence on physical and mental health. ORTHOPADIE (HEIDELBERG, GERMANY) 2024:10.1007/s00132-024-04498-3. [PMID: 38653791 DOI: 10.1007/s00132-024-04498-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systematic doping programs like in the GDR were applied in adolescent competitive athletes to induce supramaximal athletic performance. The substances had adverse somatic and psychological effects. The psychological development of the young athletes was impaired and they suffered in adulthood from long-term effects and secondary diseases even years after the doping period. METHOD The study compared three groups: competitive athletes with doping (I), competitive athletes without doping (II) and persons with no sports activities (III). Somatic and psychological diseases were analyzed to identify the adverse effects of doping in the most vulnerable phase of development in adolescence. Participants were asked to supply a patient history and completed a questionnaire with standardized psychological tests. RESULTS The doping cohort had a higher rate of somatic diseases, psychological disorders and social and professional difficulties. The differences were gender-specific with males more often having impaired liver function, depression, tumors and difficulties associated with the workplace . The doping group reported more emotional and physical neglect during childhood. They proved to be less optimistic but more pessimistic, to perceive less social support and to be more depressive. The study identified less extraversion and more neuroticism. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) occurred in a small number of participants in the doping group. Doping is associated with psychiatric variables. Predictors were the subscale identifying feelings of the Toronto alexithymia scale 20 (TAS-20), the sense of coherence and the Beck depression inventory 2 (BDI-II) and the Beck depression inventory (BDI). CONCLUSION Physical and psychosocial effects imply correlation with the application of doping substances but might not only be due to the side effects of these substances but also caused by the system, which exerts great psychological pressure and stress during adolescence, a highly vulnerable phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Berger
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Otto-von-Guericke University, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120, Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - F Schiefner
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Otto-von-Guericke University, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - M Rudolf
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Otto-von-Guericke University, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - F Awiszus
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Otto-von-Guericke University, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - F Junne
- Department for Psychosomatic and Psychotherapy, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - M Vogel
- Department for Psychosomatic and Psychotherapy, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - C H Lohmann
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Otto-von-Guericke University, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120, Magdeburg, Germany
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Cognetti DJ, Defoor MT, Yuan TT, Sheean AJ. Knee Joint Preservation in Tactical Athletes: A Comprehensive Approach Based upon Lesion Location and Restoration of the Osteochondral Unit. Bioengineering (Basel) 2024; 11:246. [PMID: 38534520 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11030246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The unique physical demands of tactical athletes put immense stress on the knee joint, making these individuals susceptible to injury. In order to ensure operational readiness, management options must restore and preserve the native architecture and minimize downtime, while optimizing functionality. Osteochondral lesions (OCL) of the knee have long been acknowledged as significant sources of knee pain and functional deficits. The management of OCL is predicated on certain injury characteristics, including lesion location and the extent of subchondral disease. Techniques such as marrow stimulation, allograft and autologous chondrocyte implantation are examined in detail, with a focus on their application and suitability in tactical athlete populations. Moreover, the restoration of the osteochondral unit (OCU) is highlighted as a central aspect of knee joint preservation. The discussion encompasses the biomechanical considerations and outcomes associated with various cartilage restoration techniques. Factors influencing procedure selection, including lesion size, location, and patient-specific variables, are thoroughly examined. Additionally, the review underscores the critical role of post-operative rehabilitation and conditioning programs in optimizing outcomes. Strengthening the surrounding musculature, enhancing joint stability, and refining movement patterns are paramount in facilitating the successful integration of preservation procedures. This narrative review aims to provide a comprehensive resource for surgeons, engineers, and sports medicine practitioners engaged in the care of tactical athletes and the field of cartilage restoration. The integration of advanced preservation techniques and tailored rehabilitation protocols offers a promising avenue for sustaining knee joint health and function in this demanding population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Cognetti
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Brooke Army Medical Center, 3551 Roger Brooke Drive, San Antonio, TX 78234, USA
| | - Mikalyn T Defoor
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Brooke Army Medical Center, 3551 Roger Brooke Drive, San Antonio, TX 78234, USA
| | - Tony T Yuan
- Advanced Exposures Diagnostics, Interventions and Biosecurity Group, 59 Medical Wing, Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, TX 78236, USA
- Center for Biotechnology (4D Bio3), Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Andrew J Sheean
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Brooke Army Medical Center, 3551 Roger Brooke Drive, San Antonio, TX 78234, USA
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3
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Stojko M, Nocoń J, Piłat P, Szpila G, Smolarczyk J, Żmudka K, Moll M, Hawranek M. Innovative Reports on the Effects of Anabolic Androgenic Steroid Abuse-How to Lose Your Mind for the Love of Sport. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1439. [PMID: 37629729 PMCID: PMC10456445 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59081439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Anabolic-androgenic steroids (anabolic-androgenic steroids, AAS) are testosterone-derived compounds whose popularity and use are constantly growing. Chronic use of AAS leads to many hormonal and metabolic disorders in the human body, which often lead to permanent health damage. Changes affect the following systems: cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, reproductive, digestive, and nervous. We decided to collect the existing knowledge in the literature and enrich it with the latest research reports in the field of degenerative effects of AAS on the nervous system. The work aimed to increase public awareness of the dangers and consequences of AAS use and improve it with the latest research on the neurodegenerative effects of AAS. We hope that our work will contribute to raising public awareness and reducing the use of AAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Stojko
- Student’s Scientific Society, III Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Jakub Nocoń
- Student’s Scientific Society, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Patrycja Piłat
- Student’s Scientific Society, III Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Gabriela Szpila
- Student’s Scientific Society, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Joanna Smolarczyk
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 50-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Karol Żmudka
- Student’s Scientific Society, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Martyna Moll
- Student’s Scientific Society, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Michał Hawranek
- III Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
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Meghani O, Albright JA, Testa EJ, Arcand MA, Daniels AH, Owens BD. Testosterone Therapy Is Associated With Increased Odds of Quadriceps Tendon Injury. Clin Orthop Relat Res 2023; 482:00003086-990000000-01253. [PMID: 37404114 PMCID: PMC10723858 DOI: 10.1097/corr.0000000000002744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anabolic steroid use at supraphysiologic doses has been associated with an increased risk of tendon injury. However, the musculoskeletal effects of testosterone therapy in the clinical setting are not well understood. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES (1) Is prescription testosterone associated with a higher odds of subsequent quadriceps muscle or tendon injury? (2) Is prescription testosterone associated with a higher odds of surgical repair of the quadriceps tendon? METHODS The PearlDiver Database, which contains data on Medicaid, Medicare, and commercially insured patients, allows for a large representative sample of the US population including both publicly and privately insured patients. The database was queried for all patients between 2011 and 2018 who filled a testosterone prescription. Additionally, all quadriceps injuries using ICD-9 and ICD-10 codes between 2011 and 2018 were queried. Propensity score matching based on age, sex, Charlson comorbidity index, and specific comorbidities allowed us to create matched control groups. We used the t-test and chi-square analysis to compare the unmatched and matched cohorts. A total of 151,797 patients (123,627 male patients and 28,170 female patients) with a history of filled testosterone prescriptions were included in the study after matching with the control group, which was of equal size and representation of age, male-female proportions, and comorbidities. Chi-square and logistic regression analyses were performed to compare odds of quadriceps injury and quadriceps tendon repair among the testosterone groups to that of their respective control groups by age and sex. RESULTS Within 1 year of filling prescriptions for testosterone, 0.06% (97 of 151,797) of patients experienced a quadriceps injury compared with less than 0.01% (18 of 151,797) of patients in the control group (OR 5.4 [95% CI 3.4 to 9.2]; p < 0.001). Within the sex-specific matched groups, filling a testosterone prescription was associated with an increase in the odds of quadriceps injury in male patients within 1 year of the prescription (OR 5.8 [95% CI 3.5 to 10.3]; p < 0.001). Additionally, patients who filled a testosterone prescription were at increased risk of having quadriceps tendon repair within a year of the injury than were patients in the matched control group (OR 4.7 [95% CI 2.0 to 13.8]; p = 0.001). CONCLUSION Considering these findings, it is important for physicians to counsel patients receiving testosterone replacement therapy of the substantially increased odds of quadriceps tendon injury. Future investigations into the mechanisms of influence of exogenous anabolic steroids on tendon injury remains of interest. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level III, therapeutic study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozair Meghani
- Department of Orthopaedics at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - J. Alex Albright
- Department of Orthopaedics at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Edward J. Testa
- Department of Orthopaedics at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Michel A. Arcand
- Department of Orthopaedics at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Alan H. Daniels
- Department of Orthopaedics at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Brett D. Owens
- Department of Orthopaedics at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
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Testa EJ, Albright JA, Hartnett D, Lemme NJ, Daniels AH, Owens BD, Arcand M. The Relationship Between Testosterone Therapy and Rotator Cuff Tears, Repairs, and Revision Repairs. J Am Acad Orthop Surg 2023; 31:581-588. [PMID: 36745691 DOI: 10.5435/jaaos-d-22-00554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The purpose of this study was to evaluate rates of rotator cuff tears (RCTs), repairs (RCRs), and revision RCR in patients who were prescribed testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) and compare these patients with a control group. METHODS The PearlDiver database was queried for patients who were prescribed testosterone for at least 90 days between 2011 and 2018 to evaluate the incidence of RCTs in this population. A second analysis evaluated patients who sustained RCTs using International Classification of Diseases, 9th/10th codes to evaluate these patients for rates of RCR and revision RCR. Chi square analysis and multivariate regression analyses were used to compare rates of RCTs, RCR, and subsequent or revision RCR between the testosterone and control groups, with a P -value of 0.05 representing statistical significance. RESULTS A total of 673,862 patients with RCT were included for analysis, and 9,168 of these patients were prescribed testosterone for at least 90 days before their RCT. The TRT group had a 3.6 times greater risk of sustaining an RCT (1.14% versus 0.19%; adjusted odds ratio (OR) 3.57; 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.57 to 3.96). A 1.6 times greater rate of RCR was observed in the TRT cohort (TRT, 46.4% RCR rate and control, 34.0% RCR rate; adjusted OR 1.60; 95% CI 1.54 to 1.67). The TRT cohort had a 26.7 times greater risk of undergoing a subsequent RCR, irrespective of laterality, within 1 year of undergoing a primary RCR when compared with the control group (TRT, 47.1% and control, 4.0%; adjusted OR 26.4; 95% CI 25.0 to 27.9, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS There is increased risk of RCTs, RCRs, and subsequent RCRs in patients prescribed testosterone. This finding may represent a musculoskeletal consequence of TRT and is important for patients and clinicians to understand. Additional research into the science of tendon injury in the setting of exogenous anabolic steroids remains of interest. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level Ⅲ, retrospective cohort study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward J Testa
- From the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Brown University, Warren Alpert School of Medicine, Providence, RI
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Thirumalai A, Anawalt BD. Androgenic Steroids Use and Abuse. Urol Clin North Am 2022; 49:645-663. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ucl.2022.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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deWeber K, Ota KS, Dye C. Pre-bout hypertension in the combat sports athlete: clearance recommendations. PHYSICIAN SPORTSMED 2022; 51:210-216. [PMID: 35019808 DOI: 10.1080/00913847.2022.2025468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Hypertension is one of the most prevalent medical disorders in the world and is associated with significant cerebrovascular and cardiovascular morbidity. Pre-bout blood pressure (BP) elevation is extremely common, and ringside physicians must accurately assess the accompanying risk of adverse cerebrovascular and cardiovascular events in the decision to allow participation in combat sports. It is strongly recommended that a ringside physician consider disqualifying a combat sports athlete with severe pre-bout hypertension (systolic BP ≥160 mm Hg and/or diastolic BP ≥100 mm Hg, or stage 2 hypertension in children when indexed by gender, age, and height) from that bout, if it persists despite rest and repeated measurement with accurate equipment. This recommendation is congruent with that of the American College of Sports Medicine, the American College of Cardiology, and the American Heart Association, which recommend non-clearance for sports or exercise testing when BP exceeds those thresholds. Severely elevated BP, as defined above, confers markedly increased risk of morbidity and mortality. Exercise further raises BP markedly. The combination of severely elevated blood pressure and cranial trauma during combat sports is a risk factor for intracranial hemorrhage with a direct impact on the morbidity and mortality associated with ringside combat sports events. Combat sports athletes with SBP ≥130 or DBP ≥90 - and their coaches and families, if available and the athlete consents - should be educated on the causes of hypertension, its acute and chronic risks, and the possible future implications for bout clearance, and the athletes should be referred for evaluation and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin deWeber
- SW Washington Sports Medicine Fellowship and Family Medicine Residency, Vancouver, WA, USA.,Department of Family Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,Department of Family Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Ken S Ota
- O Longevity and Wellness, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
| | - Cicely Dye
- Department of Cardiology, Jacksonville Naval Hospital, Jacksonville, FL, USA
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D'Andrea A, Radmilovic J, Russo V, Sperlongano S, Carbone A, Di Maio M, Ilardi F, Riegler L, D'Alto M, Giallauria F, Bossone E, Picano E. Biventricular dysfunction and lung congestion in athletes on anabolic androgenic steroids: a speckle tracking and stress lung echocardiography analysis. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2021; 28:1928-1938. [PMID: 34339497 DOI: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwab086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The real effects of the chronic consumption of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AASs) on cardiovascular structures are subjects of intense debate. The aim of the study was to detect by speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) right ventricular (RV) and left ventricular (LV) dysfunction at rest and during exercise stress echocardiography (ESE) in athletes abusing AAS. METHODS AND RESULTS One hundred and fifteen top-level competitive bodybuilders were selected (70 males), including 65 athletes misusing AAS for at least 5 years (users), 50 anabolic-free bodybuilders (non-users), compared to 50 age- and sex-matched healthy sedentary controls. Standard Doppler echocardiography, STE analysis, and lung ultrasound at rest and at peak supine-bicycle ESE were performed. Athletes showed increased LV mass index, wall thickness, and RV diameters compared with controls, whereas LV ejection fraction was comparable within the groups. left atrial volume index, LV and RV strain, and LV E/Em were significantly higher in AAS users. Users showed more B-lines during stress (median 4.4 vs. 1.25 in controls and 1.3 in non-users, P < 0.01 vs. users). By multivariable analyses, LV E/Ea (beta coefficient = 0.35, P < 0.01), pulmonary artery systolic pressure (beta = 0.43, P < 0.001) at peak effort and number of weeks of AAS use per year (beta = 0.45, P < 0.001) emerged as the only independent determinants of resting RV lateral wall peak systolic two-dimensional strain. In addition, a close association between resting RV myocardial function and VO2 peak during ESE was evidenced (P < 0.001), with a powerful incremental value with respect to clinical and standard echocardiographic data. CONCLUSIONS In athletes abusing steroids, STE analysis showed an impaired RV systolic deformation, closely associated with reduced functional capacity during physical effort, and-during exercise-more pulmonary congestion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonello D'Andrea
- Unit of Cardiology, Department of Traslational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Via Bianchi 6, 80131, Italy.,Unit of Cardiology and Intensive Coronary Care, "Umberto I" Hospital, Nocera Inferiore, Viale S. Francesco 84014, Italy
| | - Juri Radmilovic
- Unit of Cardiology and Intensive Coronary Care, "Umberto I" Hospital, Nocera Inferiore, Viale S. Francesco 84014, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Russo
- Unit of Cardiology, Department of Traslational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Via Bianchi 6, 80131, Italy
| | - Simona Sperlongano
- Unit of Cardiology, Department of Traslational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Via Bianchi 6, 80131, Italy
| | - Andreina Carbone
- Unit of Cardiology, Department of Traslational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Via Bianchi 6, 80131, Italy
| | - Marco Di Maio
- Unit of Cardiology, "SS Addolorata" Hospital, Eboli (ASL Salerno), Piazza Scuola Medica Salernitana 84025, Italy
| | - Federica Ilardi
- Cardiology and Internal Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Italy
| | - Lucia Riegler
- Unit of Cardiology and Intensive Coronary Care, "Umberto I" Hospital, Nocera Inferiore, Viale S. Francesco 84014, Italy
| | - Michele D'Alto
- Unit of Cardiology, Department of Traslational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Via Bianchi 6, 80131, Italy
| | - Francesco Giallauria
- Cardiology and Internal Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Italy
| | - Eduardo Bossone
- UOC Cardiologia Riabilitativa, Cardarelli Hospital, Naples, Via Cardarelli 9, 80131, Italy
| | - Eugenio Picano
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, Pisa, Via G. Moruzzi, Pisa 56121, Italy
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9
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Grashow R, Weisskopf MG, Miller KK, Nathan DM, Zafonte R, Speizer FE, Courtney TK, Baggish A, Taylor HA, Pascual-Leone A, Nadler LM, Roberts AL. Association of Concussion Symptoms With Testosterone Levels and Erectile Dysfunction in Former Professional US-Style Football Players. JAMA Neurol 2021; 76:1428-1438. [PMID: 31449296 PMCID: PMC6714010 DOI: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2019.2664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Question Are professional US-style football players with a history of multiple concussion symptoms more likely to report indicators of low testosterone levels or erectile dysfunction (ED)? Findings In this cross-sectional study of 3409 former players, a monotonically increasing association was found between the number of concussion symptoms and the odds of reporting an indicator of low testosterone level and ED. Meaning Concussion symptoms among former football players were associated with low testosterone levels and ED indicators, suggesting that men with a history of head injury may benefit from discussions with their health care clinicians regarding these treatable outcomes. Importance Small studies suggest that head trauma in men may be associated with low testosterone levels and sexual dysfunction through mechanisms that likely include hypopituitarism secondary to ischemic injury and pituitary axonal tract damage. Athletes in contact sports may be at risk for pituitary insufficiencies or erectile dysfunction (ED) because of the high number of head traumas experienced during their careers. Whether multiple symptomatic concussive events are associated with later indicators of low testosterone levels and ED is unknown. Objective To explore the associations between concussion symptom history and participant-reported indicators of low testosterone levels and ED. Design, Setting, and Participants This cross-sectional study of former professional US-style football players was conducted in Boston, Massachusetts, from January 2015 to March 2017. Surveys on past football exposures, demographic factors, and current health conditions were sent via electronic and postal mail to participants within and outside of the United States. Analyses were conducted in Boston, Massachusetts; the data analysis began in March 2018 and additional analyses were performed through June 2019. Of the 13 720 male former players eligible to enroll who were contacted, 3506 (25.6%) responded. Exposures Concussion symptom score was calculated by summing the frequency with which participants reported 10 symptoms, such as loss of consciousness, disorientation, nausea, memory problems, and dizziness, at the time of football-related head injury. Main Outcomes and Measures Self-reported recommendations or prescriptions for low testosterone or ED medication served as indicators for testosterone insufficiency and ED. Results In 3409 former players (mean [SD] age, 52.5 [14.1] years), the prevalence of indicators of low testosterone levels and ED was 18.3% and 22.7%, respectively. The odds of reporting low testosterone levels or ED indicators were elevated for previously established risk factors (eg, diabetes, sleep apnea, and mood disorders). Models adjusted for demographic characteristics, football exposures, and current health factors showed a significant monotonically increasing association of concussion symptom score with the odds of reporting the low testosterone indicator (highest vs lowest quartile, odds ratio, 2.39; 95% CI, 1.79-3.19; P < .001). The ED indicator showed a similar association (highest quartile vs lowest, odds ratio, 1.72; 95% CI, 1.30-2.27; P < .001). Conclusions and Relevance Concussion symptoms at the time of injury among former football players were associated with current participant-reported low testosterone levels and ED indicators. These findings suggest that men with a history of head injury may benefit from discussions with their health care clinicians regarding testosterone deficiency and sexual dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Grashow
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts.,Football Players Health Study, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Marc G Weisskopf
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts.,Football Players Health Study, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Environmental and Occupational Medicine and Epidemiology Program, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Karen K Miller
- Football Players Health Study, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - David M Nathan
- Football Players Health Study, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Massachusetts General Hospital Diabetes Center, Boston.,Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ross Zafonte
- Football Players Health Study, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.,Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston.,Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Frank E Speizer
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts.,Football Players Health Study, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Theodore K Courtney
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts.,Football Players Health Study, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Environmental and Occupational Medicine and Epidemiology Program, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Aaron Baggish
- Football Players Health Study, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Cardiovascular Performance Program, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston
| | - Herman A Taylor
- Football Players Health Study, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Cardiovascular Research Institute, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Alvaro Pascual-Leone
- Football Players Health Study, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Berenson-Allen Center for Noninvasive Brain Stimulation, Division of Cognitive Neurology, Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Lee M Nadler
- Football Players Health Study, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Andrea L Roberts
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
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10
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Doping Prevalence in Competitive Sport: Evidence Synthesis with "Best Practice" Recommendations and Reporting Guidelines from the WADA Working Group on Doping Prevalence. Sports Med 2021; 51:1909-1934. [PMID: 33900578 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-021-01477-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of doping in competitive sport, and the methods for assessing prevalence, remain poorly understood. This reduces the ability of researchers, governments, and sporting organizations to determine the extent of doping behavior and the impacts of anti-doping strategies. OBJECTIVES The primary aim of this subject-wide systematic review was to collate and synthesize evidence on doping prevalence from published scientific papers. Secondary aims involved reviewing the reporting accuracy and data quality as evidence for doping behavior to (1) develop quality and bias assessment criteria to facilitate future systematic reviews; and (2) establish recommendations for reporting future research on doping behavior in competitive sports to facilitate better meta-analyses of doping behavior. METHODS The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were used to identify relevant studies. Articles were included if they contained information on doping prevalence of any kind in competitive sport, regardless of the methodology and without time limit. Through an iterative process, we simultaneously developed a set of assessment criteria; and used these to assess the studies for data quality on doping prevalence, potential bias and reporting. RESULTS One-hundred and five studies, published between 1975 and 2019,were included. Doping prevalence rates in competitive sport ranged from 0 to 73% for doping behavior with most falling under 5%. To determine prevalence, 89 studies used self-reported survey data (SRP) and 17 used sample analysis data (SAP) to produce evidence for doping prevalence (one study used both SRP and SAP). In total, studies reporting athletes totaled 102,515 participants, (72.8% men and 27.2% women). Studies surveyed athletes in 35 countries with 26 involving athletes in the United States, while 12 studies examined an international population. Studies also surveyed athletes from most international sport federations and major professional sports and examined international, national, and sub-elite level athletes, including youth, masters, amateur, club, and university level athletes. However, inconsistencies in data reporting prevented meta-analysis for sport, gender, region, or competition level. Qualitative syntheses were possible and provided for study type, gender, and geographical region. The quality assessment of prevalence evidence in the studies identified 20 as "High", 60 as "Moderate", and 25 as "Low." Of the 89 studies using SRP, 17 rated as "High", 52 rated as "Moderate", and 20 rated as "Low." Of the 17 studies using SAP, 3 rated as "High", 9 rated as "Moderate", and 5 rated as "Low." Examining ratings by year suggests that both the quality and quantity of the evidence for doping prevalence in published studies are increasing. CONCLUSIONS Current knowledge about doping prevalence in competitive sport relies upon weak and disparate evidence. To address this, we offer a comprehensive set of assessment criteria for studies examining doping behavior data as evidence for doping prevalence. To facilitate future evidence syntheses and meta-analyses, we also put forward "best practice" recommendations and reporting guidelines that will improve evidence quality.
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Gould HP, Hawken JB, Duvall GT, Hammond JW. Asynchronous Bilateral Achilles Tendon Rupture with Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators: A Case Report. JBJS Case Connect 2021; 11:01709767-202106000-00015. [PMID: 33835995 DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.cc.20.00635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
CASE A 36-year-old male competitive powerlifter sustained asynchronous bilateral Achilles tendon ruptures after using 2 types of selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs). Both tendon ruptures occurred near the myotendinous junction and were treated with open surgical repair and an initial period of immobilization followed by progressive weightbearing and rehabilitation; no postoperative complications were observed. CONCLUSION Previous studies have reported that anabolic androgenic steroids have a deleterious impact on tendon structure and function. This case suggests that SARM compounds may also predispose users to Achilles tendon rupture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heath P Gould
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, MedStar Union Memorial Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland
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12
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Risks of Serious Injury with Testosterone Treatment. Am J Med 2021; 134:84-94.e6. [PMID: 32926849 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2020.07.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Injury causes significant morbidity and mortality that is sometimes attributed to testosterone and violence. We hypothesized that prescribed testosterone might be associated with the subsequent risk of serious injury. METHODS We conducted a self-matched individual-patient exposure-crossover analysis comparing injury risks before and after initiation of testosterone. We selected adults treated with testosterone in Ontario, Canada, from October 1, 2012, to October 1, 2017 (enrollment) and continued until October 1, 2018 (follow-up). The primary outcome was defined as an acute traumatic event that required emergency medical care. RESULTS A total of 64,386 patients were treated with testosterone of whom 89% were men with a median age of 52 years. We identified 34,439 serious injuries during the baseline interval before starting testosterone (584 per month) and 7349 serious injuries during the subsequent interval after starting testosterone (565 per month). Rates of injuries were substantially above the population norm in both intervals with no significant increased risk after starting testosterone (relative risk = 1.00; 95% confidence interval: 0.96-1.04, P = 0.850). The unchanged risk extended to diverse patients, was observed for different formulations and applied to all injury mechanisms. In contrast, testosterone treatment was associated with a 48% increased risk of a thromboembolic event (relative risk = 1.48; 95% confidence interval: 1.25-1.74, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Testosterone treatment was associated with a substantial baseline risk of serious injury that did not increase further after starting therapy. Physicians prescribing testosterone could consider basic safety reminders to mitigate injury risks.
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13
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McHugh C, Hind K, Cunningham J, Davey D, Wilson F. A career in sport does not eliminate risk of cardiovascular disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the cardiovascular health of field-based athletes. J Sci Med Sport 2020; 23:792-799. [PMID: 32139313 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2020.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors in current field-based athletes. DESIGN Meta-analysis. METHODS This review was conducted and reported in accordance with PRISMA and pre-registered with PROSPERO. Articles were retrieved via online database search engines, with no date or language restriction. Studies investigating current field-based athletes (>18years) for CVD risk factors according to the European Society of Cardiology and American Heart Association were screened. Full texts were screened using Covidence and Cochrane criteria. Eligible articles were critically appraised using the AXIS tool. Individual study estimates were assessed by random-effect meta-analyses to examine the overall effect. RESULTS This study was ascribed a 1b evidence level, according to the Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine. 41 studies were identified, including 5546 athletes from four sports; American football; soccer; rugby and baseball mean ages: 18-28. Despite participation in sport, increased body mass was associated with increased total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, hypertension, systolic blood pressure, and decreased high-density lipoprotein. Linemen had increased prevalence of hypertension compared to non-athletes. Conflicting findings on fasting glucose were prevalent. There were inconsistencies in screening and reporting of CVD risk factors. Sport specific anthropometric demands were associated with elevated prevalence of CVD risk factors, most notably: elevated body mass; dyslipidemia; elevated systolic blood pressure and; glucose. CONCLUSIONS There are elevated levels of risk for CVD in some athletes, primarily football players. Lifestyle behaviours associated with elite athleticism, particularly football linemen potentially expose players to greater metabolic and CVD risk, which is not completely offset by sport participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cliodhna McHugh
- Discipline of Physiotherapy, School of Medicine, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, St. James's Hospital, Ireland.
| | - Karen Hind
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Durham University, United Kingdom
| | - Joice Cunningham
- Discipline of Physiotherapy, School of Medicine, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, St. James's Hospital, Ireland
| | - Daniel Davey
- University College Dublin, Leinster Rugby, Newstead Building A, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Fiona Wilson
- Discipline of Physiotherapy, School of Medicine, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, St. James's Hospital, Ireland
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Elite and Olympian athletes are often stretching the upper limits of normal physiology and biomechanics of the musculoskeletal system in their efforts to excel in their sport. For them to get back to their sport at the same level after injury, the management, repair techniques, and rehabilitation protocols should be robust to permit healing of tissues to allow supra-normal loading and performance. The knee and the meniscus are commonly injured in these sports. Yet, the incidence, mechanisms, types of injuries to the meniscus, and their management are not known across different sports in the Olympics. METHODS We set out to look into the incidence and the trends of publications on meniscal injuries of the knee in Olympic games. A search of the PubMed and Scopus for these injuries using a search strategy gave 79 and 116 articles, respectively. RESULTS There were very few publications giving the incidence of meniscal injuries in the Olympics. Football is the sport with the highest rate of meniscal injuries. Different sports are popular in different countries, and depending on the popularity and the country reporting these injuries, incidences differed. There was data available from India and Brazil for Elite athlete from diverse sports, whereas most data from other countries were for football and soccer. Knee was found to be the second most commonly injured part of the body in both Winter and Summer Olympics as well as the Youth Winter Olympics. Data were not available from the Youth Summer Olympics to make any conclusions. The number of publications on this topic is low. We presented the timeline of publications and citations of articles on this topic. The top country, language, journal, university, and author were USA, English, American Journal of Sports Medicine, Hospital of Special Surgery in New York and Brophy RH, respectively. The data on the risk factors for meniscal injuries were analyzed, discussed, and presented for football, as this was the most extensively studied sport. CONCLUSIONS Even though the knee is one of the commonly injured anatomical locations in elite athletes, there is a lack of literature on meniscal injuries in this subset of population. We looked at possible reasons and made recommendations to improve data collection on these injuries.
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15
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Zuckerman SL, Brett BL, Jeckell A, Yengo-Kahn AM, Solomon GS. Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy and Neurodegeneration in Contact Sports and American Football. J Alzheimers Dis 2019; 66:37-55. [PMID: 30223396 DOI: 10.3233/jad-180218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the presence of abnormally phosphorylated tau protein in the depths of one or more cortical sulci. Controversy over the risk of CTE and neurologic disorders later in life among contact sport athletes has taken hold in the public spotlight, most notably in American football. Players, parents, coaches, and legislators have taken action based on the commonly held notion that contact sports invariably lead to neurodegenerative disorders. However, to fully understand the science behind this assumed association, a critical appraisal of the evidence is warranted. With regards to CTE in sports, the objectives of the current report are to: 1) describe the history of CTE, 2) review current CTE definitions, 3) critically evaluate the empiric data, divided into all contact sports and exclusively American football, and 4) summarize notable themes for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott L Zuckerman
- Vanderbilt Sports Concussion Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.,Department of Neurological Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Benjamin L Brett
- Vanderbilt Sports Concussion Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.,Department Neurology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA.,Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Aaron Jeckell
- Vanderbilt Sports Concussion Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Aaron M Yengo-Kahn
- Vanderbilt Sports Concussion Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.,Department of Neurological Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Gary S Solomon
- Vanderbilt Sports Concussion Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.,Department of Neurological Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
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16
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McDuff D, Stull T, Castaldelli-Maia JM, Hitchcock ME, Hainline B, Reardon CL. Recreational and ergogenic substance use and substance use disorders in elite athletes: a narrative review. Br J Sports Med 2019; 53:754-760. [PMID: 31097457 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2019-100669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Substances from various classes may be used for recreational purposes, self-treatment or to boost performance. When substance use shifts from occasional to regular, heavy or hazardous use, positive and negative effects can develop that vary by substance class and athlete. Regular use of recreational or performance enhancing substances can lead to misuse, sanctions or use disorders. OBJECTIVE To review the prevalence, patterns of use, risk factors, performance effects and types of intervention for all classes of recreational and performance enhancing substances in elite athletes by sport, ethnicity, country and gender. METHODS A comprehensive search was conducted to identify studies that compared the prevalence and patterns of substance use, misuse and use disorders in elite athletes with those of non-athletes and provided detailed demographic and sport variations in reasons for use, risk factors and performance effects for each main substance class. RESULTS Alcohol, cannabis, tobacco (nicotine) and prescribed opioids and stimulants are the most commonly used substances in elite athletes, but generally used at lower rates than in non-athletes. In contrast, use/misuse rates for binge alcohol, oral tobacco, non-prescription opioids and anabolic-androgenic steroids are higher among athletes than non-athletes, especially in power and collision sports. Cannabis/cannabinoids seem to have replaced nicotine as the second most commonly used substance. CONCLUSIONS Substance use in elite athletes varies by country, ethnicity, gender, sport and competitive level. There are no studies on substance use disorder prevalence in elite male and female athletes and few studies with direct comparison groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- David McDuff
- Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA .,MD Sports Performance, Ellicott, Maryland, USA
| | - Todd Stull
- Athletics, University of Nebraska-Lincoln University Health Center, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
| | - João Mauricio Castaldelli-Maia
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Neuroscience, Medical School, Fundação do ABC, Santo André, Brazil
| | - Mary E Hitchcock
- Ebling Library for the Health Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Brian Hainline
- National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Claudia L Reardon
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin Madison School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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17
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Mannes ZL, Waxenberg LB, Cottler LB, Perlstein WM, Burrell LE, Ferguson EG, Edwards ME, Ennis N. Prevalence and Correlates of Psychological Distress among Retired Elite Athletes: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF SPORT AND EXERCISE PSYCHOLOGY 2018; 12:265-294. [PMID: 31217807 PMCID: PMC6583001 DOI: 10.1080/1750984x.2018.1469162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
This article presents results of a systematic review of the literature (2000-2017) examining the prevalence and correlates of psychological distress among retired elite athletes. Forty articles were selected and included. Our review suggests the prevalence of psychological distress among retired athletes is similar to that found in the general population. However, subgroups reporting medical comorbidities, significant pain, a greater number of concussions, less social support, and adverse psychosocial factors were at greater risk for psychological distress. Additionally, athletes experiencing psychological distress in retirement often do not seek treatment for their distress. Based on the existing literature, there is a need for greater standardization and use of reliable measures, as well as use of diagnostic interviews in order to assess the most accurate prevalence of psychological distress among these athletes. Longitudinal designs, matched control groups, more heterogeneous samples, and use of multivariate analyses would also help to more accurately determine the prevalence and risk factors of psychological distress in this population. This review suggests a number of different clinical implications and highlights directions for future research to enhance our understanding of the long-term psychological health of former elite athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary L. Mannes
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Lori B. Waxenberg
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Linda B. Cottler
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health and Health Professions & College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - William M. Perlstein
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Larry E. Burrell
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Erin G. Ferguson
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Mary E. Edwards
- Health Science Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Nicole Ennis
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
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18
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D’Andrea A, Radmilovic J, Caselli S, Carbone A, Scarafile R, Sperlongano S, Tocci G, Formisano T, Martone F, Liccardo B, D’Alto M, Bossone E, Galderisi M, Golino P. Left atrial myocardial dysfunction after chronic abuse of anabolic androgenic steroids: a speckle tracking echocardiography analysis. Int J Cardiovasc Imaging 2018; 34:1549-1559. [DOI: 10.1007/s10554-018-1370-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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19
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Abstract
My objectives are to review: 1) a brief history of sport-related concussion (SRC) and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), 2) the evolution of CTE in American professional football, 3) the data regarding SRC/CTE as they relate to depression and suicide, 4) the data on the neurocognitive effects of subconcussion/repetitive head trauma (with emphases on heading the ball in soccer and early exposure to football), 5) the evidence related to SRC and neurodegenerative diseases, 6) the published studies of CTE, 7) the NINDS neuropathological criteria for CTE, 8) public beliefs about SRC/CTE, and 9) the scientific questions regarding CTE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary Solomon
- a Department of Neurological Surgery, Vanderbilt Sports Concussion Center , Vanderbilt University School of Medicine , Nashville , Tennessee , USA
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20
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Venkataramani AS, Gandhavadi M, Jena AB. Association Between Playing American Football in the National Football League and Long-term Mortality. JAMA 2018; 319:800-806. [PMID: 29392304 PMCID: PMC5838566 DOI: 10.1001/jama.2018.0140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Importance Studies of the longevity of professional American football players have demonstrated lower mortality relative to the general population but they may have been susceptible to selection bias. Objective To examine the association between career participation in professional American football and mortality risk in retirement. Design, Setting, and Participants Retrospective cohort study involving 3812 retired US National Football League (NFL) players who debuted in the NFL between 1982 and 1992, including regular NFL players (n = 2933) and NFL "replacement players" (n = 879) who were temporarily hired to play during a 3-game league-wide player strike in 1987. Follow-up ended on December 31, 2016. Exposures NFL participation as a career player or as a replacement player. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was all-cause mortality by December 31, 2016. Cox proportional hazards models were estimated to compare the observed number of years from age 22 years until death (or censoring), adjusted for birth year, body mass index, height, and position played. Information on player death and cause of death was ascertained from a search of the National Death Index and web-based sources. Results Of the 3812 men included in this study (mean [SD] age at first NFL activity, 23.4 [1.5] years), there were 2933 career NFL players (median NFL tenure, 5 seasons [interquartile range {IQR}, 2-8]; median follow-up, 30 years [IQR, 27-33]) and 879 replacement players (median NFL tenure, 1 season [IQR, 1-1]; median follow-up, 31 years [IQR, 30-33]). At the end of follow-up, 144 NFL players (4.9%) and 37 replacement players (4.2%) were deceased (adjusted absolute risk difference, 1.0% [95% CI, -0.7% to 2.7%]; P = .25). The adjusted mortality hazard ratio for NFL players relative to replacements was 1.38 (95% CI, 0.95 to 1.99; P = .09). Among career NFL players, the most common causes of death were cardiometabolic disease (n = 51; 35.4%), transportation injuries (n = 20; 13.9%), unintentional injuries (n = 15; 10.4%), and neoplasms (n = 15; 10.4%). Among NFL replacement players, the leading causes of death were cardiometabolic diseases (n = 19; 51.4%), self-harm and interpersonal violence (n = 5; 13.5%), and neoplasms (n = 4; 10.8%). Conclusions and Relevance Among NFL football players who began their careers between 1982 and 1992, career participation in the NFL, compared with limited NFL exposure obtained primarily as an NFL replacement player during a league-wide strike, was not associated with a statistically significant difference in long-term all-cause mortality. Given the small number of events, analysis of longer periods of follow-up may be informative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atheendar S. Venkataramani
- Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Maheer Gandhavadi
- Department of Heart and Vascular (Cardiology), Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology, The Everett Clinic, Everett, Washington
- Providence Regional Medical Center, Everett, Washington
| | - Anupam B. Jena
- Department of Health Care Policy, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston
- National Bureau of Economic Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts
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21
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Asken BM, Sullan MJ, Snyder AR, Houck ZM, Bryant VE, Hizel LP, McLaren ME, Dede DE, Jaffee MS, DeKosky ST, Bauer RM. Factors Influencing Clinical Correlates of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE): a Review. Neuropsychol Rev 2016; 26:340-363. [PMID: 27561662 PMCID: PMC5507554 DOI: 10.1007/s11065-016-9327-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2016] [Accepted: 08/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) is a neuropathologically defined disease reportedly linked to a history of repetitive brain trauma. As such, retired collision sport athletes are likely at heightened risk for developing CTE. Researchers have described distinct pathological features of CTE as well a wide range of clinical symptom presentations, recently termed traumatic encephalopathy syndrome (TES). These clinical symptoms are highly variable, non-specific to individuals described as having CTE pathology in case reports, and are often associated with many other factors. This review describes the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral changes associated with 1) developmental and demographic factors, 2) neurodevelopmental disorders, 3) normal aging, 4) adjusting to retirement, 5) drug and alcohol abuse, 6) surgeries and anesthesia, and 7) sleep difficulties, as well as the relationship between these factors and risk for developing dementia-related neurodegenerative disease. We discuss why some professional athletes may be particularly susceptible to many of these effects and the importance of choosing appropriate controls groups when designing research protocols. We conclude that these factors should be considered as modifiers predominantly of the clinical outcomes associated with repetitive brain trauma within a broader biopsychosocial framework when interpreting and attributing symptom development, though also note potential effects on neuropathological outcomes. Importantly, this could have significant treatment implications for improving quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Breton M Asken
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| | - Molly J Sullan
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Aliyah R Snyder
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Zachary M Houck
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Vaughn E Bryant
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Loren P Hizel
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Molly E McLaren
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Duane E Dede
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Michael S Jaffee
- Department of Neurology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Steven T DeKosky
- Department of Neurology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Russell M Bauer
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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22
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An index predictive of cognitive outcome in retired professional American Football players with a history of sports concussion. J Clin Exp Neuropsychol 2016; 38:561-71. [PMID: 26898803 DOI: 10.1080/13803395.2016.1139057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Various concussion characteristics and personal factors are associated with cognitive recovery in athletes. We developed an index based on concussion frequency, severity, and timeframe, as well as cognitive reserve (CR), and we assessed its predictive power regarding cognitive ability in retired professional football players. METHOD Data from 40 retired professional American football players were used in the current study. On average, participants had been retired from football for 20 years. Current neuropsychological performances, indicators of CR, concussion history, and play data were used to create an index for predicting cognitive outcome. RESULTS The sample displayed a range of concussions, concussion severities, seasons played, CR, and cognitive ability. Many of the participants demonstrated cognitive deficits. The index strongly predicted global cognitive ability (R(2) = .31). The index also predicted the number of areas of neuropsychological deficit, which varied as a function of the deficit classification system used (Heaton: R(2) = .15; Wechsler: R(2) = .28). CONCLUSIONS The current study demonstrated that a unique combination of CR, sports concussion, and game-related data can predict cognitive outcomes in participants who had been retired from professional American football for an average of 20 years. Such indices may prove to be useful for clinical decision making and research.
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23
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Nieschlag E, Vorona E. Doping with anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS): Adverse effects on non-reproductive organs and functions. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2015; 16:199-211. [PMID: 26373946 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-015-9320-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Since the 1970s anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) have been abused at ever increasing rates in competitive athletics, in recreational sports and in bodybuilding. Exceedingly high doses are often consumed over long periods, in particular by bodybuilders, causing acute or chronic adverse side effects frequently complicated by additional polypharmacy. This review summarizes side effects on non-reproductive organs and functions; effects on male and female reproduction have been recently reviewed in a parallel paper. Among the most striking AAS side effects are increases in haematocrit and coagulation causing thromboembolism, intracardiac thrombosis and stroke as well as other cardiac disturbances including arrhythmias, cardiomyopathies and possibly sudden death. 17α-alkylated AAS are liver toxic leading to cholestasis, peliosis, adenomas and carcinomas. Hyperbilirubinaemia can cause cholemic nephrosis and kidney failure. AAS abuse may induce exaggerated self-confidence, reckless behavior, aggressiveness and psychotic symptoms. AAS withdrawal may be accompanied by depression and suicidal intentions. Since AAS abuse is not or only reluctantly admitted physicians should be aware of the multitude of serious side effects when confronted with unclear symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eberhard Nieschlag
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany.
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Elena Vorona
- Centre of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Rheumatology, Dortmund, Germany
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24
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Sorenson SC, Romano R, Scholefield RM, Schroeder ET, Azen SP, Salem GJ. The Trojan Lifetime Champions Health Survey: development, validity, and reliability. J Athl Train 2015; 50:407-18. [PMID: 25611315 DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-50.2.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Self-report questionnaires are an important method of evaluating lifespan health, exercise, and health-related quality of life (HRQL) outcomes among elite, competitive athletes. Few instruments, however, have undergone formal characterization of their psychometric properties within this population. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the validity and reliability of a novel health and exercise questionnaire, the Trojan Lifetime Champions (TLC) Health Survey. DESIGN Descriptive laboratory study. SETTING A large National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I university. PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS A total of 63 university alumni (age range, 24 to 84 years), including former varsity collegiate athletes and a control group of nonathletes. INTERVENTION(S) Participants completed the TLC Health Survey twice at a mean interval of 23 days with randomization to the paper or electronic version of the instrument. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Content validity, feasibility of administration, test-retest reliability, parallel-form reliability between paper and electronic forms, and estimates of systematic and typical error versus differences of clinical interest were assessed across a broad range of health, exercise, and HRQL measures. RESULTS Correlation coefficients, including intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) for continuous variables and κ agreement statistics for ordinal variables, for test-retest reliability averaged 0.86, 0.90, 0.80, and 0.74 for HRQL, lifetime health, recent health, and exercise variables, respectively. Correlation coefficients, again ICCs and κ, for parallel-form reliability (ie, equivalence) between paper and electronic versions averaged 0.90, 0.85, 0.85, and 0.81 for HRQL, lifetime health, recent health, and exercise variables, respectively. Typical measurement error was less than the a priori thresholds of clinical interest, and we found minimal evidence of systematic test-retest error. We found strong evidence of content validity, convergent construct validity with the Short-Form 12 Version 2 HRQL instrument, and feasibility of administration in an elite, competitive athletic population. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that the TLC Health Survey is a valid and reliable instrument for assessing lifetime and recent health, exercise, and HRQL, among elite competitive athletes. Generalizability of the instrument may be enhanced by additional, larger-scale studies in diverse populations.
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Basra SS, Pokharel Y, Hira RS, Bandeali SJ, Nambi V, Deswal A, Nasir K, Martin SS, Vogel RA, Roberts AJ, Ballantyne CM, Virani SS. Relation between playing position and coronary artery calcium scores in retired National Football League players. Am J Cardiol 2014; 114:1836-40. [PMID: 25432152 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2014.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2014] [Revised: 09/10/2014] [Accepted: 09/10/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Retired National Football League (NFL) linemen have an increased prevalence of risk factors for atherosclerosis and have an increased risk of cardiovascular death compared with nonlinemen and the general population. We evaluated whether playing in lineman position is independently associated with an increased risk of the presence and severity of subclinical atherosclerosis. Players were categorized as linemen if they reported playing on the offensive or defensive line during their careers. Subclinical atherosclerosis was assessed using coronary artery calcium (CAC) scores in 931 retired NFL players (310 linemen, 621 nonlinemen). CAC scores were evaluated for absence of subclinical atherosclerosis (CAC = 0), presence of mild subclinical atherosclerosis (CAC 1 to 100), and moderate to severe subclinical atherosclerosis (CAC ≥100). We performed multivariate logistic regression to determine whether the lineman position is independently associated with the presence and severity of subclinical atherosclerosis. Linemen were noted to have a lesser likelihood of absence of subclinical atherosclerosis (CAC = 0, 33.8% vs 41.7%, p = 0.02), a similar likelihood of mild subclinical atherosclerosis (CAC 1 to 100, 33.2% vs 31.8%, p = 0.7), and a greater likelihood of moderate to severe subclinical atherosclerosis (CAC >100, 32.9% vs 26.4%, p = 0.04) compared with nonlinemen. Adjusting for demographic and metabolic covariates, lineman status remained independently associated with mild subclinical atherosclerosis (CAC 1 to 100, odds ratio [OR] 1.41, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.05 to 2.2, p = 0.04) and moderate to severe subclinical atherosclerosis (CAC ≥100, OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.05 to 2.2). The association was attenuated after adjustment for race (CAC 1 to 100, OR 1.24, 95% CI 0.82 to 1.8; CAC >100, OR 1.59, 95% CI 1.01 to 2.49). In conclusion, lineman status in retired NFL players is associated with presence and severity of subclinical atherosclerosis, which is partly explained by race.
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Pope HG, Wood RI, Rogol A, Nyberg F, Bowers L, Bhasin S. Adverse health consequences of performance-enhancing drugs: an Endocrine Society scientific statement. Endocr Rev 2014; 35:341-75. [PMID: 24423981 PMCID: PMC4026349 DOI: 10.1210/er.2013-1058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 332] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Despite the high prevalence of performance-enhancing drug (PED) use, media attention has focused almost entirely on PED use by elite athletes to illicitly gain a competitive advantage in sports, and not on the health risks of PEDs. There is a widespread misperception that PED use is safe or that adverse effects are manageable. In reality, the vast majority of PED users are not athletes but rather nonathlete weightlifters, and the adverse health effects of PED use are greatly underappreciated. This scientific statement synthesizes available information on the medical consequences of PED use, identifies gaps in knowledge, and aims to focus the attention of the medical community and policymakers on PED use as an important public health problem. PED users frequently consume highly supraphysiologic doses of PEDs, combine them with other PEDs and/or other classical drugs of abuse, and display additional associated risk factors. PED use has been linked to an increased risk of death and a wide variety of cardiovascular, psychiatric, metabolic, endocrine, neurologic, infectious, hepatic, renal, and musculoskeletal disorders. Because randomized trials cannot ethically duplicate the large doses of PEDs and the many factors associated with PED use, we need observational studies to collect valid outcome data on the health risks associated with PEDs. In addition, we need studies regarding the prevalence of PED use, the mechanisms by which PEDs exert their adverse health effects, and the interactive effects of PEDs with sports injuries and other high-risk behaviors. We also need randomized trials to assess therapeutic interventions for treating the adverse effects of PEDs, such as the anabolic-androgen steroid withdrawal syndrome. Finally, we need to raise public awareness of the serious health consequences of PEDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harrison G Pope
- McLean Hospital (H.G.P.), Harvard Medical School, Belmont, Massachusetts 02478; University of Southern California (R.I.W.), Los Angeles, California 90089; University of Virginia (A.R.), Charlottesville, Virginia 22904; Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, (F.N.), Upsala University, SE-751 24, Upsala, Sweden; United States Anti-Doping Agency (L.B.), Colorado Springs, Colorado 80919; and Brigham and Women's Hospital (S.B.), Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
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From gene engineering to gene modulation and manipulation: can we prevent or detect gene doping in sports? Sports Med 2014; 43:965-77. [PMID: 23832852 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-013-0075-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
During the last 2 decades, progress in deciphering the human gene map as well as the discovery of specific defective genes encoding particular proteins in some serious human diseases have resulted in attempts to treat sick patients with gene therapy. There has been considerable focus on human recombinant proteins which were gene-engineered and produced in vitro (insulin, growth hormone, insulin-like growth factor-1, erythropoietin). Unfortunately, these substances and methods also became improper tools for unscrupulous athletes. Biomedical research has focused on the possible direct insertion of gene material into the body, in order to replace some defective genes in vivo and/or to promote long-lasting endogenous synthesis of deficient proteins. Theoretically, diabetes, anaemia, muscular dystrophies, immune deficiency, cardiovascular diseases and numerous other illnesses could benefit from such innovative biomedical research, though much work remains to be done. Considering recent findings linking specific genotypes and physical performance, it is tempting to submit the young athletic population to genetic screening or, alternatively, to artificial gene expression modulation. Much research is already being conducted in order to achieve a safe transfer of genetic material to humans. This is of critical importance since uncontrolled production of the specifically coded protein, with serious secondary adverse effects (polycythaemia, acute cardiovascular problems, cancer, etc.), could occur. Other unpredictable reactions (immunogenicity of vectors or DNA-vector complex, autoimmune anaemia, production of wild genetic material) also remain possible at the individual level. Some new substances (myostatin blockers or anti-myostatin antibodies), although not gene material, might represent a useful and well-tolerated treatment to prevent progression of muscular dystrophies. Similarly, other molecules, in the roles of gene or metabolic activators [5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide 1-β-D-ribofuranoside (AICAR), GW1516], might concomitantly improve endurance exercise capacity in ischaemic conditions but also in normal conditions. Undoubtedly, some athletes will attempt to take advantage of these new molecules to increase strength or endurance. Antidoping laboratories are improving detection methods. These are based both on direct identification of new substances or their metabolites and on indirect evaluation of changes in gene, protein or metabolite patterns (genomics, proteomics or metabolomics).
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Kelly DF, Chaloner C, Evans D, Mathews A, Cohan P, Wang C, Swerdloff R, Sim MS, Lee J, Wright MJ, Kernan C, Barkhoudarian G, Yuen KCJ, Guskiewicz K. Prevalence of pituitary hormone dysfunction, metabolic syndrome, and impaired quality of life in retired professional football players: a prospective study. J Neurotrauma 2014; 31:1161-71. [PMID: 24552537 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2013.3212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypopituitarism is common after moderate and severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). Herein, we address the association between mild TBI (mTBI) and pituitary and metabolic function in retired football players. Retirees 30-65 years of age, with one or more years of National Football League (NFL) play and poor quality of life (QoL) based on Short Form 36 (SF-36) Mental Component Score (MCS) were prospectively enrolled. Pituitary hormonal and metabolic syndrome (MetS) testing was performed. Using a glucagon stimulation test, growth hormone deficiency (GHD) was defined with a standard cut point of 3 ng/mL and with a more stringent body mass index (BMI)-adjusted cut point. Subjects with and without hormonal deficiency (HD) were compared in terms of QoL, International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) scores, metabolic parameters, and football career data. Of 74 subjects, 6 were excluded because of significant non-football-related TBIs. Of the remaining 68 subjects (mean age, 47.3±10.2 years; median NFL years, 5; median NFL concussions, 3; mean BMI, 33.8±6.0), 28 (41.2%) were GHD using a peak GH cutoff of <3 ng/mL. However, with a BMI-adjusted definition of GHD, 13 of 68 (19.1%) were GHD. Using this BMI-adjusted definition, overall HD was found in 16 (23.5%) subjects: 10 (14.7%) with isolated GHD; 3 (4.4%) with isolated hypogonadism; and 3 (4.4%) with both GHD and hypogonadism. Subjects with HD had lower mean scores on the IIEF survey (p=0.016) and trended toward lower scores on the SF-36 MCS (p=0.113). MetS was present in 50% of subjects, including 5 of 6 (83%) with hypogonadism, and 29 of 62 (46.8%) without hypogonadism (p=0.087). Age, BMI, median years in NFL, games played, number of concussions, and acknowledged use of performance-enhancing steroids were similar between HD and non-HD groups. In summary, in this cohort of retired NFL players with poor QoL, 23.5% had HD, including 19% with GHD (using a BMI-adjusted definition), 9% with hypogonadism, and 50% had MetS. Although the cause of HD is unclear, these results suggest that GHD and hypogonadism may contribute to poor QoL, erectile dysfunction, and MetS in this population. Further study of pituitary function is warranted in athletes sustaining repetitive mTBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel F Kelly
- 1 Brain Tumor Center & Pituitary Disorders Program, John Wayne Cancer Institute at Saint John's Health Center , Santa Monica, California
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Sagoe D, Molde H, Andreassen CS, Torsheim T, Pallesen S. The global epidemiology of anabolic-androgenic steroid use: a meta-analysis and meta-regression analysis. Ann Epidemiol 2014; 24:383-98. [PMID: 24582699 DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2014.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 318] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2013] [Revised: 12/29/2013] [Accepted: 01/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To estimate the global lifetime prevalence rate of anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) use and investigate moderators of the prevalence rate. METHODS A meta-analysis and meta-regression analysis was performed using studies gathered from searches in PsycINFO, PubMed, ISI Web of Science, and Google Scholar among others. Included were 187 studies that provided original data on 271 lifetime prevalence rates. Studies were coded for publication year, region, sample type, age range, sample size, assessment method, and sampling method. Heterogeneity was assessed by the I(2) index and the Q-statistic. Random effect-size modeling was used. Subgroup comparisons were conducted using Bonferroni correction. RESULTS The global lifetime prevalence rate obtained was 3.3% (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.8-3.8; I(2) = 99.7, P < .001). The prevalence rate for males, 6.4% (95% CI, 5.3-7.7, I(2) = 99.2, P < .001), was significantly higher (Qbet = 100.1, P < .001) than the rate for females, 1.6% (95% CI, 1.3-1.9, I(2) = 96.8, P < .001). Sample type (athletes), assessment method (interviews only and interviews and questionnaires), sampling method, and male sample percentage were significant predictors of AAS use prevalence. There was no indication of publication bias. CONCLUSION Nonmedical AAS use is a serious widespread public health problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominic Sagoe
- Department of Psychosocial Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
| | - Helge Molde
- Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Cecilie S Andreassen
- Department of Psychosocial Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway; The Competence Center, Bergen Clinics Foundation, Bergen, Norway
| | - Torbjørn Torsheim
- Department of Psychosocial Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Ståle Pallesen
- Department of Psychosocial Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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Abstract
BACKGROUND In the initial autopsy case studies of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), some researchers have concluded that the proteinopathy associated with CTE is the underlying cause of suicidality and completed suicide in former athletes. METHODS A review of the literature on contact sports and risk of completed suicide revealed only one epidemiological study with direct relevant data. RESULTS There are no published cross-sectional, epidemiological or prospective studies showing a relation between contact sports and risk of suicide. One published epidemiological study suggests that retired National Football League players have lower rates of death by suicide than the general population. Outside of sports, there is a mature body of evidence suggesting that the causes of suicide are complex, multifactorial and difficult to predict in individual cases. CONCLUSIONS Future research might establish a clear causal connection between the proteinopathy of CTE and suicide. At present, however, there is insufficient scientific evidence to conclude that there is a strong causal relationship between the presence of these proteinopathies and suicide in former athletes. Additional research is needed to determine the extent to which the neuropathology of CTE is a possible mediator or moderator variable associated with suicide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grant L Iverson
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Didehbani N, Munro Cullum C, Mansinghani S, Conover H, Hart J. Depressive symptoms and concussions in aging retired NFL players. Arch Clin Neuropsychol 2013; 28:418-24. [PMID: 23644673 DOI: 10.1093/arclin/act028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
We examined the relationship between a remote history of concussions with current symptoms of depression in retired professional athletes. Thirty retired National Football League (NFL) athletes with a history of concussion and 29 age- and IQ-matched controls without a history of concussion were recruited. We found a significant correlation between the number of lifetime concussions and depressive symptom severity using the Beck Depression Inventory II. Upon investigating a three-factor model of depressive symptoms (affective, cognitive, and somatic; Buckley et al., 2001) from the BDI-II, the cognitive factor was the only factor that was significantly related to concussions. In general, NFL players endorsed more symptoms of depression on all three Buckley factors compared with matched controls. Findings suggest that the number of self-reported concussions may be related to later depressive symptomology (particularly cognitive symptoms of depression).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nyaz Didehbani
- Center for BrainHealth®, The University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas, TX, USA.
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Kersey RD, Elliot DL, Goldberg L, Kanayama G, Leone JE, Pavlovich M, Pope HG. National Athletic Trainers' Association position statement: anabolic-androgenic steroids. J Athl Train 2013; 47:567-88. [PMID: 23068595 DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-47.5.08] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This manuscript summarizes the best available scholarly evidence related to anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) as a reference for health care professionals, including athletic trainers, educators, and interested others. BACKGROUND Health care professionals associated with sports or exercise should understand and be prepared to educate others about AAS. These synthetic, testosterone-based derivatives are widely abused by athletes and nonathletes to gain athletic performance advantages, develop their physiques, and improve their body image. Although AAS can be ergogenic, their abuse may lead to numerous negative health effects. RECOMMENDATIONS Abusers of AAS often rely on questionable information sources. Sports medicine professionals can therefore serve an important role by providing accurate, reliable information. The recommendations provide health care professionals with a current and accurate synopsis of the AAS-related research.
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Mills JD, Bailes JE, Turner RC, Dodson SC, Sakai J, Maroon JC. Anabolic steroids and head injury. Neurosurgery 2012; 70:205-9; discussion 209-10. [PMID: 21606881 DOI: 10.1227/neu.0b013e3182250918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The suggestion has been made that neurological changes seen in the syndrome of chronic traumatic encephalopathy may be due to exogenous anabolic steroid use rather than traumatic brain injury. OBJECTIVE To determine whether administration of anabolic steroids alters the pathophysiology of traumatic brain injury. METHODS Sixty adult male Sprague-Dawley rats and a linear acceleration model of traumatic brain injury were used. Experimental groups were (1) preinjury anabolic steroids, (2) preinjury placebo carrier, (3) anabolic steroids without injury, (4) no steroids and no injury, (5) postinjury placebo carrier, and (6) postinjury anabolic steroids. Following a 30-day recovery, rats were euthanized, and brainstem white matter tracts underwent fluorescent immunohistochemical processing and labeling of β-amyloid precursor protein (APP), a marker of axonal injury. Digital imaging and statistical analyses were used to determine whether anabolic steroid administration resulted in a significant change in the number of injured axons. RESULTS There was no statistically significant difference in number of APP-positive axons by immunohistochemical analysis between respective anabolic steroid and placebo groups. CONCLUSION Using a standard acceleration-deceleration model of mild traumatic brain injury, we have shown successful visualization of traumatically injured axons with antibody staining of APP. Our results indicate no statistically significant effect of anabolic steroids on the number of APP-positive axons. With the use of this model, and within its limitations, we see no adverse effect or causative role of anabolic steroid administration on the brain following mild traumatic brain injury using APP counts as a marker for anatomic injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- James D Mills
- Department of Neurosurgery, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
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Baron SL, Hein MJ, Lehman E, Gersic CM. Body mass index, playing position, race, and the cardiovascular mortality of retired professional football players. Am J Cardiol 2012; 109:889-96. [PMID: 22284915 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2011.10.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2011] [Revised: 10/28/2011] [Accepted: 10/28/2011] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Concern exists about cardiovascular disease (CVD) in professional football players. We examined whether playing position and size influence CVD mortality in 3,439 National Football League players with ≥ 5 pension-credited playing seasons from 1959 to 1988. Standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) compared player mortality through 2007 to the United States population of men stratified by age, race, and calendar year. Cox proportional hazards models evaluated associations of playing-time body mass index (BMI), race, and position with CVD mortality. Overall player mortality was significantly decreased (SMR 0.53, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.48 to 0.59) as was mortality from cancer (SMR 0.58, 95% CI 0.46 to 0.72), and CVD (SMR 0.68, 95% CI 0.56 to 0.81). CVD mortality was increased for defensive linemen (SMR 1.42, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.92) but not for offensive linemen (SMR 0.70, 95% CI 0.45 to 1.05). Defensive linemen's cardiomyopathy mortality was also increased (SMR 5.34, 95% CI 2.30 to 10.5). Internal analyses found that CVD mortality was increased for players of nonwhite race (hazard ratio 1.69, 95% CI 1.13 to 2.51). After adjusting for age, race, and calendar year, CVD mortality was increased for those with a playing-time BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 (hazard ratio 2.02, 95% CI 1.06 to 3.85) and for defensive linemen compared to offensive linemen (hazard ratio 2.07, 95% CI 1.24 to 3.46). In conclusion, National Football League players from the 1959 through 1988 seasons had decreased overall mortality but those with a playing-time BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 had 2 times the risk of CVD mortality compared to other players and African-American players and defensive linemen had higher CVD mortality compared to other players even after adjusting for playing-time BMI.
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Load bearing. Biophysics (Nagoya-shi) 2012. [DOI: 10.1017/cbo9781139035002.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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