Prevalence of chronic conditions, treatment strategies and sources of nutrition information used by masters games participants

Fiona Halar, Helen O'Connor, Xiaoping Wu, Tania Prvan, Michael Climstein, Wendy Stuart-Smith, Peter R J Reaburn, Janelle Gifford

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Abstract

Background: Masters athletes (MA) may have medical conditions that influence recommendations for optimising health and performance. This study examined prevalence of chronic conditions, treatment strategies and sources of nutrition information used by MA. Method: MA competing at two Australian Masters Games competitions (2017, 2018) were invited to complete an online survey. Prevalence of chronic conditions was compared to Australian Health Survey data using Chi-square Goodness of Fit or Fisher’s Exact Test. Scores for 14 nutrition information sources were calculated by multiplying response number for each source by rank (1-5, ordered by importance). Results: In total, 817 participants (53.7±10.6y, 60.8% female) responded. The prevalence of most chronic conditions was lower in Australian MA versus the general population (asthma, hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, type 2 diabetes, cancer, anxiety, osteoporosis, depression, p<0.05; n=734). While 40% of MA used exercise and 40% used diet to treat any condition, 38% used no treatment. The four most important sources of nutrition information were general practitioners (1196), the internet (1050), and sports or general dietitians/nutritionists (1031 and 927) (range: 287-1196; n=757). Conclusion: MA have a lower prevalence of chronic conditions than the general population. Some may benefit from tailored lifestyle education to support healthy ageing utilising experts including dietitians.
Original languageEnglish
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2019
Event43rd Nutrition Society Australia Annual Scientific Meeting: Nutrition: The Epicentre of Health - Newcastle, Australia
Duration: 2 Dec 20195 Dec 2019
Conference number: 43rd
https://nsameeting.asn.au/

Conference

Conference43rd Nutrition Society Australia Annual Scientific Meeting
Abbreviated titleNSA
Country/TerritoryAustralia
CityNewcastle
Period2/12/195/12/19
OtherThe purpose of the ASM is to present the latest nutrition science research and discuss its implications and its applications. The meetings invariably have a friendly and collegial atmosphere and have a strong tradition of support for nutrition science students. They are an excellent opportunity to network with peers and other scientists who have an interest in nutrition – from Australia, New Zealand and around the world.

The conference will bring together more than 270 delegates from diverse nutrition, public health, policy, animal and science backgrounds. The theme, NUTRITION SCIENCE: The epicentre of Health, highlights the importance of the Society and the opportunities and challenges currently being faced in nutrition.

The goal of the Nutrition Society of Australia is to bring to the fore and communicate the scientific value and relevance of nutrition science and related disciplines in Australia. To achieve this, NSA has formal linkages with international and national organisations, and has active groups in every state and the ACT. There are more than 900 members, including the most eminent human and animal nutritionists in the country. About one third of our members hold doctorates and many others are studying for their PhD.

Our members are employed in a diverse range of roles, including academia, research, private industry, policy makers, health care and consultancy.

The 2019 meeting will include invited presentations from renowned international and national speakers, a scientific program based on peer reviewed abstracts, a student masterclass and meet the expert’s sessions. Over the coming months we will share information about speakers, topics and activities. The Organising Committee welcomes you and looks forward to meeting you at NSA 2019.
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