Author(s): HATSUKARI, A., KAMIKUBO, T., TORII, S., Institution: WASEDA UNIVERSITY, Country: JAPAN, Abstract-ID: 969

INTRODUCTION:
Relative energy deficiency in sport (REDs) is a condition of physiological dysfunction caused by low energy availability and can affect both male and female athletes, although severity may differ by sex. Research on male athletes remains limited, partly because they often exhibit subtle or non-obvious symptoms, making REDs difficult to recognise for both athletes and those around them. To advance understanding in this field, evidence must be gathered from a wide population [1]. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the prevalence of REDs and identify associated risk factors in male athletes
METHODS:
One hundred and fifteen well-trained male athletes participated in this study. All athletes were categorized into endurance (n=36; 19.6 ± 1.1 years, 171.2 ± 5.0 cm, 55.9 ± 4.6 kg) and non-endurance (n=79; 20.0 ± 1.3 years, 174.5 ± 5.1 cm, 74.2 ± 10.2 kg) groups. Following the 2023 International Olympic Committee REDs consensus statement [2], athletes exhibiting one or more primary indicators were classified as at risk of REDs. Four indicators were adopted: low free testosterone concentration, low triiodothyronine concentration, history of bone stress injuries, and low bone mineral density (Z-score < -1) at the lumbar spine measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. The chi-squared test was used to assess the differences in the prevalence of REDs risk between endurance and non-endurance. Logistic regression analysis identified factors associated with REDs risk.
RESULTS:
The prevalence of REDs risk in endurance and non-endurance groups was 55.6% and 17.7%, respectively, with endurance group showing a significantly higher prevalence (p < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis indicated that being an endurance athlete (OR = 11.026, 95% CI: 3.442–35.318, p < 0.001) and longer weekly exercise duration (OR = 1.092, 95% CI: 1.000–1.193, p = 0.049) were associated with REDs risk.
CONCLUSION:
These findings, consistent with previous studies, indicate that participation in endurance sports is a significant risk factor for REDs in male athletes. Furthermore, a high weekly exercise duration was shown to increase the risk of REDs even among non-endurance athletes. Athletes participating in non-endurance sports should also be aware that they may be at risk of REDs.


REFERENCE:
[1] AC Hackney, et al., REDs alert: male athletes be wary and scientists take action! Br J Sports Med. 2023; 57(17): 1066-1067.
[2] Mountjoy M, et al. 2023 International Olympic Committees (IOC) consensus statement on Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs). Br J Sports Med. 2023; 57(17): 1073-1097.