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Gwyther K, Pilkington V, Bailey AP, Mountjoy M, Bergeron MF, Rice SM, Purcell R. Mental health and well-being of elite youth athletes: a scoping review. Br J Sports Med 2024:bjsports-2024-108244. [PMID: 39122370 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2024-108244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is increasing recognition of the prevalence and risk factors for mental health symptoms and disorders among adult elite athletes, with less research involving elite youth athletes. This scoping review aimed to characterise the mental health and well-being of elite youth athletes who travel internationally and compete for their sport. METHOD Four databases were searched in March 2023. Inclusion criteria were studies with elite youth athlete populations (mean age 12-17 years) reporting mental health and well-being outcomes. Data from included studies were charted by outcome, and risk/protective factors identified. RESULTS Searches retrieved 3088 records, of which 33 studies met inclusion criteria, encapsulating data from 5826 athletes (2538 males, 3288 females). The most frequently studied issue was disordered eating (k=16), followed by anxiety (k=7), depression (k=5) and mixed anxiety/depression (k=2). Caseness estimates (a symptom level where mental health treatment is typically indicated) for disordered eating were wide ranging (0%-14% for males; 11%-41% for females), whereas only two studies estimated caseness for depression (7% in a mixed-sex sample; 14% for males, 40% for females) and one for anxiety (8% for males, 28% for females). Common risk factors for mental ill-health included sex, athlete status (compared with non-athletes) and social/relationship factors (with coaches/parents/peers). Contradictory evidence was observed for elite/competition level, which was associated with higher and lower rates of disordered eating. CONCLUSION Further representative research into the mental health and well-being of elite youth athletes is needed to enhance understanding and guide prevention and intervention measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Gwyther
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Elite Sports and Mental Health, Orygen, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Vita Pilkington
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Elite Sports and Mental Health, Orygen, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alan P Bailey
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Margo Mountjoy
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael F Bergeron
- Performance Health, WTA Women's Tennis Association, St. Petersburg, Florida, USA
| | - Simon M Rice
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Elite Sports and Mental Health, Orygen, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rosemary Purcell
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Elite Sports and Mental Health, Orygen, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Ewing AP, Chang GC, Henry AV, Brown JA, Alalwan MA, Boyd DT, Marshall D, McElwain S, Best AL, Parvanta CF, Levin BL, Meade CD, Gwede CK. Lifestyle Related Cancer Risk and Protective Behaviors Vary among a Convenient Sample of Physically Active, Young-to-Middle-Aged Adults 18-49. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6305. [PMID: 37444152 PMCID: PMC10341878 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20136305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
It is an assumption that physically active adults lead an overall healthy lifestyle. To examine this assumption, we administered a cross-sectional, web-based survey to a sample of young-to-middle-aged US adults between 18 and 49 who self-reported participation in at least one recreational sporting event in the past month. Logistic regressions were conducted to examine demographic characteristics associated with cancer risk and protective behaviors. Gender was represented equally (N = 938), and the average age was 32 years (SD: 8.4). Most participants reported >three days of moderate- to high-intensity physical activity (79%), but not meeting fruit and vegetable consumption guidelines (78%). Many reported current tobacco use (32%), binge drinking at least once in the past 30 days (62%), and suboptimal sun protection use (67%). Participation in lifestyle-related cancer risk and protective behaviors varied based on age, sex, education, routine doctor visits, perceived overall health, health-information-seeking behavior (how participants obtained health information), or team-based sport participation in regression models. Future interventions should be tailored to address varied cancer risk profiles among even physically active adults to encourage multiple healthy behavior changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldenise P. Ewing
- College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; (G.C.C.); (A.V.H.); (M.A.A.); (D.M.); (S.M.)
| | - Gregory C. Chang
- College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; (G.C.C.); (A.V.H.); (M.A.A.); (D.M.); (S.M.)
| | - Abhishek V. Henry
- College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; (G.C.C.); (A.V.H.); (M.A.A.); (D.M.); (S.M.)
| | - Jordyn A. Brown
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA;
| | - Mahmood A. Alalwan
- College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; (G.C.C.); (A.V.H.); (M.A.A.); (D.M.); (S.M.)
| | - Donte T. Boyd
- College of Social Work, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA;
| | - Daniel Marshall
- College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; (G.C.C.); (A.V.H.); (M.A.A.); (D.M.); (S.M.)
| | - Skylar McElwain
- College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; (G.C.C.); (A.V.H.); (M.A.A.); (D.M.); (S.M.)
| | - Alicia L. Best
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (A.L.B.); (C.F.P.); (B.L.L.)
| | - Claudia F. Parvanta
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (A.L.B.); (C.F.P.); (B.L.L.)
| | - Bruce L. Levin
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (A.L.B.); (C.F.P.); (B.L.L.)
| | - Cathy D. Meade
- Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (C.D.M.); (C.K.G.)
| | - Clement K. Gwede
- Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (C.D.M.); (C.K.G.)
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Kvillemo P, Nilsson A, Strandberg AK, Björk K, Elgán TH, Gripenberg J. Mental health problems, health risk behaviors, and prevention: A qualitative interview study on perceptions and attitudes among elite male soccer players. Front Public Health 2023; 10:1044601. [PMID: 36684906 PMCID: PMC9850108 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1044601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The purpose of this study was to investigate the perception of mental health problems and health risk behaviors among Swedish male elite soccer players and their attitudes toward possible prevention strategies. Method Twenty elite soccer players, aged 15-30 years, were recruited through purposive sampling and interviewed via a digital video calling platform. A semi-structured interview guide, encompassing questions about mental health problems, health risk behaviors among soccer teams, peer-relations, relations to coaches, and attitudes toward health risk behaviors, along with proposals for effective interventions, was employed. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed with qualitative content analysis. Results The informants reported positive feelings in relation to playing soccer, good health, and few health risk behaviors. Risk factors included a large income, excessive free time, and the need for excitement. Stress and mental health problems were linked to performance pressure, social media, and injuries. Hesitation to talk openly about personal problems due to concerns about negative consequences and the "macho culture" was highlighted as barriers to admit and seek help for personal problems. Some statements indicated openness and the club's efforts to destigmatize personal problems. Positive attitudes toward prevention and suggestions for various measures were prominent. Conclusion Future research and implementation of interventions should focus on the prevention of health risk behaviors and alleviation of stress and performance pressure, as well as continue the efforts to destigmatize mental health problems and raise awareness among coaches of the importance of their communication and behavior for players' mental health and performance. This could be achieved by developing strategic and systematic policy work, information, and dialogue among players and coaches, in addition to individual digital or face-to-face support, provided by professionals outside the soccer context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pia Kvillemo
- STAD, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anders Nilsson
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna K. Strandberg
- STAD, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Karl Björk
- Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tobias H. Elgán
- STAD, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Johanna Gripenberg
- STAD, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Pilkington V, Rice SM, Walton CC, Gwyther K, Olive L, Butterworth M, Clements M, Cross G, Purcell R. Prevalence and Correlates of Mental Health Symptoms and Well-Being Among Elite Sport Coaches and High-Performance Support Staff. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2022; 8:89. [PMID: 35792942 PMCID: PMC9259770 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-022-00479-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Background There is growing understanding of mental health needs in elite athletes, but less is known about the mental health of coaches and support staff who work within elite sport settings. This study examined the prevalence and correlates of mental health symptoms in elite-level coaches and high-performance support staff (HPSS) and compared rates against published elite athlete samples. A cross-sectional, anonymous, online survey was administered to coaches and HPSS working in Australia’s high-performance sports system. Main outcomes were scores on validated measures of psychological distress, probable ‘caseness’ for a diagnosable psychological condition, alcohol consumption and sleep disturbance. Results Data were provided by 78 coaches (mean age = 46.4 years, 23.8% female) and 174 HPSS (mean age = 40.0 years, 56.7% female). Overall, 41.2% of the sample met probable caseness criteria, 13.9% reported high to very high psychological distress, 41.8% reported potential risky alcohol consumption and 17.7% reported moderate to severe sleep disturbance, with no statistically significant differences between coaches and HPSS. The most robust correlates of psychological distress and probable caseness were dissatisfaction with social support and dissatisfaction with life balance, while poor life balance was also associated with increased alcohol consumption and poor social support with sleep disturbance. Coaches and HPSS reported similar prevalence of mental health outcomes compared to rates previously observed in elite athletes, with the exception of higher reporting of alcohol consumption among coaches and HPSS. Conclusions Elite-level coaches and HPSS reported levels of psychological distress and probable caseness similar to those previously reported among elite-level athletes, suggesting that these groups are also susceptible to the pressures of high-performance sporting environments. Screening for mental health symptoms in elite sport should be extended from athletes to all key stakeholders in the daily training environment, as should access to programs to support mental health and well-being.
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40798-022-00479-y.
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5
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Kennedy M. Cannabis, cannabidiol and tetrahydrocannabinol in sport: An overview. Intern Med J 2022; 52:1471-1477. [PMID: 35191178 DOI: 10.1111/imj.15724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The World Antidoping Agency now allows cannabidiol (CBD) to be taken in elite sport but has retained all other cannabinoids on its banned list. This, together with liberalisation of cannabis laws have led to an increasing interest in its use in sport. This includes commercial sponsorship of sporting events and highlights the need for accurate information to be readily available to athletes and their advisers. This narrative review confirms that CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) do not enhance performance. CBD possesses anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties which have not been adequately evaluated in the area of sport. Some formulations of CBD contain THC or other cannabinoids that may result in a positive drug test. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Kennedy
- University of New South Wales (Sydney), Department of Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, St Vincent's Hospital Darlinghurst
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González-García H, Pelegrín A, Carballo JL. Estilos educativos percibidos por deportistas consumidores de tabaco y cánnabis. PENSAMIENTO PSICOLÓGICO 2017. [DOI: 10.11144/javerianacali.ppsi16-1.eepd] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
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Rice SM, Purcell R, De Silva S, Mawren D, McGorry PD, Parker AG. The Mental Health of Elite Athletes: A Narrative Systematic Review. Sports Med 2017; 46:1333-53. [PMID: 26896951 PMCID: PMC4996886 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-016-0492-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 357] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background The physical impacts of elite sport participation have been well documented; however, there is comparatively less research on the mental health and psychological wellbeing of elite athletes. Objective This review appraises the evidence base regarding the mental health and wellbeing of elite-level athletes, including the incidence and/or nature of mental ill-health and substance use. Methods A systematic search of the PubMed, EMBASE, SPORTDiscus, PsycINFO, Cochrane and Google Scholar databases, up to and including May 2015, was conducted. Results The search yielded a total of 2279 records. Following double screening, 60 studies were included. The findings suggested that elite athletes experience a broadly comparable risk of high-prevalence mental disorders (i.e. anxiety, depression) relative to the general population. Evidence regarding other mental health domains (i.e. eating disorders, substance use, stress and coping) is less consistent. These results are prefaced, however, by the outcome of the quality assessment of the included studies, which demonstrated that relatively few studies (25 %) were well reported or methodologically rigorous. Furthermore, there is a lack of intervention-based research on this topic. Conclusion The evidence base regarding the mental health and wellbeing of elite athletes is limited by a paucity of high-quality, systematic studies. Nonetheless, the research demonstrates that this population is vulnerable to a range of mental health problems (including substance misuse), which may be related to both sporting factors (e.g. injury, overtraining and burnout) and non-sporting factors. More high-quality epidemiological and intervention studies are needed to inform optimal strategies to identify and respond to player mental health needs. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s40279-016-0492-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon M Rice
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, 35 Poplar Road, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC , 3052, Australia.
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Orygen Youth Health Clinical Program, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Rosemary Purcell
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, 35 Poplar Road, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC , 3052, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Stefanie De Silva
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, 35 Poplar Road, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC , 3052, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Daveena Mawren
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, 35 Poplar Road, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC , 3052, Australia
| | - Patrick D McGorry
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, 35 Poplar Road, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC , 3052, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Orygen Youth Health Clinical Program, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Alexandra G Parker
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, 35 Poplar Road, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC , 3052, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Kennedy MC. Cannabis: Exercise performance and sport. A systematic review. J Sci Med Sport 2017; 20:825-829. [PMID: 28392338 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2017.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2016] [Revised: 02/19/2017] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To review the evidence relating to the effect of cannabis on exercise performance. DESIGN A systematic review of published literature METHODS: Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the principal psychoactive component of cannabis. A search was conducted using PUB med, Medline and Embase searching for cannabis, marijuana, cannabinoids and THC, in sport and exercise; the contents of sports medicine journals for the last 10 years; as well as cross references from journals and a personal collection of reprints. Only English language literature was reviewed and only articles that specified the details of a formal exercise program or protocol. Individuals in rehabilitation or health screening programs involving exercise were included as the study may have identified adverse reactions in the marijuana group. Review articles, opinion pieces, policy statements by sporting bodies and regulatory agencies were excluded. RESULTS Only 15 published studies have investigated the effects of THC in association with exercise protocols. Of these studies, none showed any improvement in aerobic performance. Exercise induced asthma was shown to be inhibited. In terms of detrimental effects, two studies found that marijuana precipitated angina at a lower work-load (100% of subjects) and strength is probably reduced. Some subjects could not complete an exercise protocol because adverse reactions caused by cannabis. An important finding relevant to drug testing was that aerobic exercise was shown to cause only very small rises (<1ng/mL) in THC concentrations. CONCLUSIONS THC does not enhance aerobic exercise or strength.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael C Kennedy
- Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, St. Vincent's Hospital Medical School, UNSW, Sydney, Australia.
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Brisola-Santos MB, Gallinaro JGDME, Gil F, Sampaio-Junior B, Marin MCD, de Andrade AG, Richter KP, Glick ID, Baltieri DA, Castaldelli-Maia JM. Prevalence and correlates of cannabis use among athletes-A systematic review. Am J Addict 2016; 25:518-28. [PMID: 27629700 DOI: 10.1111/ajad.12425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2016] [Revised: 08/01/2016] [Accepted: 08/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Despite scientific evidence that marijuana impairs performance and mental health, there is evidence that some athletes are at higher risk for use. This review aims to identify possible risk factors associated with marijuana use in athletes. METHODS A search was conducted in the PubMed database with the keywords: (marijuana OR cannabis OR tetrahydrocannabinol OR delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol OR THC) AND (sports OR sport OR athlete OR athletes). We retrieved 186 studies. After applying the inclusion/exclusion criteria, 15 studies remained for review. RESULTS The review revealed a number of potential risk factors for marijuana use among adult athletes, including being male, Caucasian, using sport performance-enhancing drugs, using marijuana to enhance recreation or non-sport performance, and practicing specific types of sports including skeleton, bobsleding, and ice hockey. Contrary to use patterns in the general population, among athletes marijuana appears to take the place of tobacco as the second most widely used drug, after alcohol. Many elite athletes denied the use of marijuana, which suggests that toxicological testing is an important tool for identifying users, because it is more accurate than self-report. Geography appears important, as in areas of high consumption, prevalence among athletes appears to be greater as well. CONCLUSION AND SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE Contrary to the image that athletes do not use psychoactive drugs, this review suggests that a number of athletic subgroups are at increased risk for marijuana use. Surprisingly, a common rationale for use appears to be to enhance sports performance. As in the general population, experimentation starts early-in pre-adolescence-at an age that prevention and guidance programs could have positive influences. (Am J Addict 2016;25:518-528).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Felipe Gil
- Departament of Neuroscience, Medical School, Fundação do ABC, Santo André, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Bernardo Sampaio-Junior
- Departament of Neuroscience, Medical School, Fundação do ABC, Santo André, São Paulo, Brazil.,ABC Center for Mental Health Studies, Santo André, São Paulo, Brazil.,Service of Interdisciplinary Neuromodulation (SIN), Department and Institute of Psychiatry, Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Matheus Cheibub David Marin
- Departament of Neuroscience, Medical School, Fundação do ABC, Santo André, São Paulo, Brazil.,Interdisciplinary Group for Studies on Alcohol and Drugs (GREA), Department and Institute of Psychiatry, Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Arthur Guerra de Andrade
- Departament of Neuroscience, Medical School, Fundação do ABC, Santo André, São Paulo, Brazil.,Interdisciplinary Group for Studies on Alcohol and Drugs (GREA), Department and Institute of Psychiatry, Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Kimber Paschall Richter
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas
| | - Ira David Glick
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Danilo Antonio Baltieri
- Departament of Neuroscience, Medical School, Fundação do ABC, Santo André, São Paulo, Brazil.,Interdisciplinary Group for Studies on Alcohol and Drugs (GREA), Department and Institute of Psychiatry, Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - João Mauricio Castaldelli-Maia
- Departament of Neuroscience, Medical School, Fundação do ABC, Santo André, São Paulo, Brazil. .,ABC Center for Mental Health Studies, Santo André, São Paulo, Brazil. .,Interdisciplinary Group for Studies on Alcohol and Drugs (GREA), Department and Institute of Psychiatry, Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil. .,Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas.
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11
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Harcourt PR, Unglik H, Cook JL. A strategy to reduce illicit drug use is effective in elite Australian football. Br J Sports Med 2012; 46:943-5. [PMID: 22893512 PMCID: PMC3463863 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2012-091329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) prescribes that drug testing is conducted in sports competitions to detect drug use in athletes. This testing includes performance-enhancing drugs as well as illicit substances such as marijuana, amphetamines and cocaine. Illicit drugs are tested for on match days but not on non-match days. Some athletes are known to use illicit substances for recreational purposes, away from competition times and this poses a serious health and welfare issue not addressed by the usual sport drug testing regimes. This paper reports the results of the first 7 years of an illicit drug-testing programme that included non-match day testing in the elite Australian Football competition, the Australian Football League (AFL). METHODS Players in the AFL were tested for illicit drugs both in-competition and out-of-competition. Players were selected for illicit substance tests either randomly or targeted based on previous test history or time since previous test. The number of tests conducted was increased each year from 2005 to 2011 and testing was focused on high-risk times during non-competition periods. RESULTS There were no positive match day tests. There was a significant reduction in positive tests (19-6) for illicit drugs during non-competition periods over the 7 years (p<0.0001). The reduction in positive tests may be related to player education, the greater number of tests conducted and the harm minimisation approach of the illicit drug policy. CONCLUSIONS An illicit drugs programme using a harm minimisation strategy can work effectively alongside a sport's WADA compliant Anti-Doping Code.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter R Harcourt
- Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, School of Primary Health Care, Frankston, VIC 3199, Australia
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12
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Dunn M, Thomas JO. A risk profile of elite Australian athletes who use illicit drugs. Addict Behav 2012; 37:144-7. [PMID: 21963151 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2011.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2011] [Accepted: 09/02/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Much of the literature investigating the relationship between sports participation and substance use has focused upon student populations, with little focus being given to athletes who participate at elite levels. Identifying why some athletes may be at a greater risk for substance use can help in the design and implementation of prevention initiatives. Data for the current study was from 1684 self-complete surveys with elite Australian athletes. Eight percent (n=134) of the sample reported the use of at least one of the six illicit drugs under investigation (ecstasy, cannabis, cocaine, meth/amphetamine, ketamine and GHB) in the past year. Having been offered or having had the opportunity to use illicit drugs in the past year, knowing other athletes who use drugs and identifying as a 'full-time athlete' were significant predictors of past-year illicit drug use, while having completed secondary education or a post-school qualification was associated with a lower likelihood of past-year illicit drug use. Athletes are part of a sportsnet that includes family, coaches, support staff and other athletes, and these relationships may encourage the use, supply and demand for drugs. The current findings suggest that relationships with some of those in the sportsnet may play an important role when understanding illicit drug use among elite athletes. As education appears to be associated with a lower likelihood of illicit drug use among this group, initiatives should encourage athletes to engage in off-field pursuits which may also help prepare them for life after sport.
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13
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Kondric M, Sekulic D, Petroczi A, Ostojic L, Rodek J, Ostojic Z. Is there a danger for myopia in anti-doping education? Comparative analysis of substance use and misuse in Olympic racket sports calls for a broader approach. SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT PREVENTION AND POLICY 2011; 6:27. [PMID: 21988896 PMCID: PMC3204239 DOI: 10.1186/1747-597x-6-27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2011] [Accepted: 10/11/2011] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Background Racket sports are typically not associated with doping. Despite the common characteristics of being non-contact and mostly individual, racket sports differ in their physiological demands, which might be reflected in substance use and misuse (SUM). The aim of this study was to investigate SUM among Slovenian Olympic racket sport players in the context of educational, sociodemographic and sport-specific factors. Methods Elite athletes (N = 187; mean age = 22 ± 2.3; 64% male) representing one of the three racket sports, table tennis, badminton, and tennis, completed a paper-and-pencil questionnaire on substance use habits. Athletes in this sample had participated in at least one of the two most recent competitions at the highest national level and had no significant difference in competitive achievement or status within their sport. Results A significant proportion of athletes (46% for both sexes) reported using nutritional supplements. Between 10% and 24% of the studied males would use doping if the practice would help them achieve better results in competition and if it had no negative health consequences; a further 5% to 10% indicated potential doping behaviour regardless of potential health hazards. Females were generally less oriented toward SUM than their male counterparts with no significant differences between sports, except for badminton players. Substances that have no direct effect on sport performance (if timed carefully to avoid detrimental effects) are more commonly consumed (20% binge drink at least once a week and 18% report using opioids), whereas athletes avoid substances that can impair and threaten athletic achievement by decreasing physical capacities (e.g. cigarettes), violating anti-doping codes or potentially transgressing substance control laws (e.g. opiates and cannabinoids). Regarding doping issues, athletes' trust in their coaches and physicians is low. Conclusion SUM in sports spreads beyond doping-prone sports and drugs that enhance athletic performance. Current anti-doping education, focusing exclusively on rules and fair play, creates an increasingly widening gap between sports and the athletes' lives outside of sports. To avoid myopia, anti-doping programmes should adopt a holistic approach to prevent substance use in sports for the sake of the athletes' health as much as for the integrity of sports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miran Kondric
- Faculty of Sport, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Dunn M, Thomas JO, Swift W, Burns L. Elite athletes' estimates of the prevalence of illicit drug use: evidence for the false consensus effect. Drug Alcohol Rev 2011; 31:27-32. [PMID: 21450047 DOI: 10.1111/j.1465-3362.2011.00307.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND AIMS The false consensus effect (FCE) is the tendency for people to assume that others share their attitudes and behaviours to a greater extent than they actually do. The FCE has been demonstrated for a range of health behaviours, including substance use. The study aimed to explore the relationship between elite athlete's engagement in recreational drug use and their consensus estimates (the FCE) and to determine whether those who engage in the behaviour overestimate the use of others around them. DESIGN AND METHOD The FCE was investigated among 974 elite Australian athletes who were classified according to their drug use history. RESULTS Participants tended to report that there was a higher prevalence of drug use among athletes in general compared with athletes in their sport, and these estimates appeared to be influenced by participants' drug use history. While overestimation of drug use by participants was not common, this overestimation also appeared to be influenced by athletes' drug use history. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that athletes who have a history of illicit drug use overestimate the prevalence of drug use among athletes. These findings may be helpful in the formulation of normative education initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Dunn
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
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15
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Thomas JO, Dunn M, Swift W, Burns L. Illicit drug knowledge and information-seeking behaviours among elite athletes. J Sci Med Sport 2011; 14:278-82. [PMID: 21377929 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2011.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2009] [Revised: 01/30/2011] [Accepted: 02/04/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Many sporting organisations in Australia conduct drug information seminars for their athletes; however, it is uncertain whether these programs provide athletes with pertinent drug information in formats that are conducive to information retention. The aims of the current study were to investigate self-reported confidence in knowledge of illicit drugs and information seeking behaviours among elite athletes. METHODS Data were collected from two sources: (1) quantitative surveys with elite Australian athletes; and (2) qualitative interviews with key experts who come into contact with elite athletes. RESULTS Athletes were confident in their knowledge of the effects of illicit drugs such as cannabis and meth/amphetamine, but less confident in their knowledge of the effects of illicit drugs such as GHB and ketamine. A substantial proportion felt that athletes in their sport would benefit from more information concerning illicit drugs. CONCLUSIONS Both athletes and key expert believed that information on illicit drugs should be delivered to athletes in a specific and relevant manner. There may be stigma attached to information seeking within a sports club or organisation. Accordingly, improving the accessibility to creditable information via the Internet may prove to be an effective means by which to educate athletes on the effects of illicit drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna O Thomas
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
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