Information about project titled 'ParaFRISK – prevention of para athletes´ health'
ParaFRISK – prevention of para athletes´ health
| Details about the project - category | Details about the project - value |
|---|---|
| Project status: | Ongoing |
| Project manager: | Kathrin Steffen |
| Supervisor(s): | Hilde Moseby Berge |
| Coworker(s): | Roald Bahr, Ben Clarsen |
Description
For athletes, staying healthy is critical to be able to train and compete. We recently reported a greater burden of health problems among elite Para athletes (32 days lost from sport each year) compared to Olympic athletes (27 days). Para athletes have underlying and pre-existing medical conditions, which may make them more vulnerable to illnesses in particular.
Early identification of health problems is important to target treatment and prevention. Injury and illness surveillance is now well established in Paralympic and Olympic Games. During the Olympic Games, the incidence proportions of illnesses and injuries range between 5-7 illnesses and 10-13 injuries per participating 100 athletes. However, comparable data collected during Paralympic Games are considerably higher.
Prospective longitudinal health monitoring of Paralympic-level athletes outside competition is limited. Longitudinal data will facilitate a more comprehensive understanding of illness and injury patterns overall, enabling better planning of year-round medical services for Para athletes, and informing initiatives to protect athlete health.
The primary goal of periodic health evaluation and corresponding medical encounters is to determine if the athlete is safe to participate in the physical demands of the sport.
The benefits of the Norwegian health screening and monitoring system for athletes and clinicians will be evaluated based on findings and how they can impact further treatment and the implementation on preventive measures.
With ParaFRISK, we will prospectively screen and monitor athletes planning to represent Norway in Paralympic Games. Gained knowledge will impact better health services and will be transferable to recruit athletes as well.