Abstract

MKUMBUZI, N S  and  KASEKE, F. Use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and nutritional supplements in Zimbabwean football. SA J. Sports Med. [online]. 2015, vol.27, n.1, pp.20-22. ISSN 2078-516X.  http://dx.doi.org/10.7196/SAJSM.577.

BACKGROUND: The use of medications by football players in many populations is known to be high. Data on African players are scarce. OBJECTIVE: To determine the magnitude of use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and nutritional supplements by Zimbabwean football players. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study during the 2011/2012 Premier Soccer League football season. A total of 86 players responded to a self-administered questionnaire that assessed self-reported use of NSAIDs and nutritional supplements. RESULTS: All the participants admitted to taking NSAIDs, with 44% self-prescribing. Nutritional supplements were taken by 56% of the respondents. Of these, 21% took them on a daily basis and 40% did so without professional advice. CONCLUSION: Regular, self-prescribed use of NSAIDs and nutritional supplements is high among Zimbabwean football players.

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