Risk of Chronic Disease and Disability in Former Competitive Collegiate Athletes

Abstract

Excessive, high-intensity training regimens in collegiate athletics place athletes under chronic stress that increases susceptibility to injuries, overtraining, and long-term limitations in activity and disability. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of prior participation in collegiate athletics on activities of daily living, physical activity limitations, and the development of chronic disease in a population of former Division I athletes. Former Division I college athletes were followed for a period of 5 years after baseline testing. Athletes were surveyed concerning injuries incurred during participation in all varsity sports. Also included were questions about current health and activity status, and physical limitations. Blood pressure, resting heart rate, body composition, and body weight were measured at baseline, and reported 5 years later. Significant increases from baseline in reported physical activity limitations were present in female softball, basketball, volleyball, soccer and track athletes (p<.01). Significant increases from baseline in reported physical activity limitations were present in male football, basketball, baseball, and track athletes (p<.01). The percentage of athletes reporting daily activity limitations was 38% and 43%, for females and males, respectively (p<0.01). The percentage of athletes reporting physical activity limitations was 47% and 58% for female and male athletes, respectively (p<0.01). Significant increases in blood pressure, resting heart rate, body weight and body composition were seen in both endurance and power athletes who previously had reported an injury. These data suggest that collegiate athletics participation may result in a substantial physical cost, and indicate a potential longterm risk associated with participation in collegiate athletics.