Globally, cigarette smoking is a leading type of substance misuse. Cigarette smoking has many negative associated consequences, such as increased healthcare resource use, lower quality of life, and higher healthcare costs. It is known to cause diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory conditions. Psychological and socioenvironmental are essential determinants of smoking behavior. Alcohol is another leading agent for substance misuse. Physical exercise and sports participation are two factors that are known to be protective against substance misuse. This study evaluated the gender-specific association between physical activity levels (PALs), sports participation, and concurrent SUM among college students.
This study consisted of 412 participants between 18 and 21 years old. Participants were analyzed one to two months after the COVID-19 pandemic ended. The Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test was used to measure alcohol consumption. Participants also completed the Substance Use Questionnaire and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Demographics such as age, gender, and country of origin were also collected. Males and females reported significantly different AUDIT scores, with the higher scores in males.
The results of this study found that when observing a total sample of college students and when observing males, sports participation and PALs were not associated with concurrent substance misuse. In female students, competitive achievement in sports was associated with concurrent substance misuse. Female students who achieved better success in sports had a higher chance of concurrent substance misuse. These results suggest that specific educational and preventive programs for female athletes.
Takeaway: In female students, competitive achievement in sports was associated with concurrent substance misuse.