Abstract
BACKGROUND: Few studies have examined the use of ergogenic supplements (ESs) by young athletes residing in a sports specialized school. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 120 students from a sports specialized school (ages 12-19) completed a questionnaire to assess the prevalence of use of ES according to sex, sport, type of supplement, reasons for use, knowledge of supplements, and sources of information. RESULTS: Most athletes were males (55%) and participated in track and field (32%). Mean age was 14.7 ± 1.6 years. Approximately 98% of athletes indicated using one or more supplements. Sport beverages (95.0%), proteins/amino acids (57%), and vitamins (54%) were the most commonly used. Athletes practicing racquet sports were more likely to consume proteins/amino acids every day than those in any other type of sport (P < 0.05). The adjusted odds of using vitamins were 14% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.22-3.30) and 71% (95% CI: 0.09-0.96) lower among athletes practicing explosive sports and high intensity, respectively, as compared to those practicing endurance-intensive sports. On the other hand, the odds of using proteins/amino acids was higher for those practicing explosive (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 3.48, 95% CI: 1.02-11.86) and high-intensity (AOR: 2.88, 95% CI: 1.00-8.26) sports. Approximately 62% of athletes used supplements to improve performance. Only 8% of athletes were willing to use a prohibited substance to achieve participation in the Olympics. CONCLUSION: There was a very high prevalence of use of ES in a sports specialized school. Education regarding supplement use is warranted for athletes, coaches, and family.