Health status of South African masters swimmers and senior netball players, their medication use and attitudes towards doping

Summary

The main aim of this study was to investigate the health status, associated medication use, and attitudes towards doping of South African masters swimmers and senior netball players.

Methodology

This study was a quantitative, cross-sectional, descriptive study. Data was collected using an online self-report questionnaire. The study received ethical approval from the Research Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Pretoria. 359 masters swimmers and 60 senior netball players participated in the study.

Results

The prevalence of chronic disease was 39.1% (masters swimmers) and 11.7% (senior netball players). Hypertension, lipidaemia, and diabetes mellitus were most prevalent in the masters swimmers while asthma, depression, and attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder were most prevalent in the senior netball players. Chronic medication use was 33.7% and 8.3% in the masters swimmers and senior netball players, respectively.  Receiving any prescription injections, medications or utilising any over the counter (OTC) medications for the treatment of injury or illness suffered before or during competition was 16.4% (masters swimmers) and 66,7% (senior netball players). The masters swimmers and senior netball players were not lenient towards intentional doping. 62.1% of the swimmers and 25.9 % of the netball players said they were not familiar with the World Anti‑Doping Agency (WADA) website and anti‑doping policies.

The masters swimmers and senior netball players may be at risk of unintentional doping due to their medication use. Specifically, chronic medication use in the masters swimmers and OTC or prescription medication use shortly before or during a competition in the senior netball players. The masters swimmers and senior netball players were not lenient towards doping. Education interventions directed towards the needs of older athletes could be beneficial in both these cohorts, especially the masters swimmers.

Significance for Clean Sport

This study provides significant insights for the anti-doping movement and the promotion of clean sport, especially in the context of athletes, such as masters swimmers and senior netball players. Here are the key implications:

Risk of Unintentional Doping: The study highlights a crucial risk factor for unintentional doping among senior athletes. Since many medications could contain substances banned by anti-doping regulations, these athletes may inadvertently violate anti-doping rules. This underscores the need for targeted education and resources to help older athletes manage their health while staying compliant with anti-doping regulations.

Low Awareness of Anti-Doping Policies: The concerning lack of familiarity with anti-doping policies among a significant portion of the athletes surveyed increases the likelihood of unintentional doping and highlights a gap in current anti-doping education efforts. Addressing this knowledge gap through tailored educational programs could help reduce the risk of doping violations among older athletes.

Need for Targeted Anti-Doping Education: The study suggests that athletes could benefit significantly from anti-doping education that is specifically tailored to their needs. This education should focus not only on the risks of intentional doping but also on the dangers of unintentional doping due to medication use. For example, providing clear guidance on how to check medications against banned substance lists and the importance of consulting with healthcare providers about doping regulations could be key components of such programs.

Attitudes Towards Doping: Despite the risks associated with unintentional doping, the study found that both masters swimmers and senior netball players generally have a strong stance against intentional doping. This is a positive finding, as it indicates a prevailing culture of clean sport among these groups. However, this also means that anti-doping education efforts can build on this existing mindset, focusing on reinforcing the importance of vigilance and awareness in all aspects of medication and supplement use.

Implications for Policy and Practice: The findings suggest that anti-doping agencies and sports organizations should consider the unique challenges faced by senior athletes when designing and implementing anti-doping policies. For example, policies might need to include specific provisions for senior athletes regarding the use of chronic medications and how to navigate anti-doping regulations safely. Additionally, outreach and education efforts should be designed to be accessible and relevant to senior athletes, possibly involving more direct engagement through sports clubs, healthcare providers, and online platforms.

Health and Medication Management in Sports: The study underscores the intersection between health management and doping control in sports, particularly for senior athletes who may have complex medical needs. It calls for a more integrated approach that involves not just athletes but also their healthcare providers in the anti-doping education process. This could lead to better-informed decisions about medication use in relation to sports competitions.

In summary, this research emphasizes the importance of addressing the specific needs of senior athletes in anti-doping efforts. By focusing on education, awareness, and tailored policy interventions, anti-doping organizations can better support these athletes in maintaining both their health and their commitment to clean sport.