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Risk Factors for Menstrual Dysfunction in Junior Athletes.
Haruka Morota1, Noriko Motoki, Hotaru Fukushima
1Department of Pediatrics, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan.
Summary
This study identified key clinical and biochemical factors linked to menstrual dysfunction in junior female athletes. Findings highlight potential risk predictors but require further research for clinical application.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Endocrinology
- Adolescent Health
Background:
- Menstrual dysfunction is a concern in junior female athletes.
- Identifying risk factors is crucial for athlete health and performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate risk factors associated with menstrual dysfunction in junior female athletes.
- To compare clinical and biochemical parameters between athletes with and without menstrual dysfunction.
Main Methods:
- Observational case-control study involving 61 junior female athletes.
- Comparison of anthropometric, exercise, lifestyle, and blood data.
- Logistic regression analysis to identify risk factors for menstrual dysfunction.
Main Results:
- White blood cell count, blood urea nitrogen, free triiodothyronine, zinc, and estradiol were significantly associated with menstrual dysfunction.
- Exercise energy expenditure and sleep time showed weak associations.
- Overlap in laboratory values between groups was noted.
Conclusions:
- Several clinical and biochemical variables are associated with menstrual dysfunction in junior female athletes.
- Findings are exploratory and do not establish clinical screening utility.
- Further prospective studies are needed to clarify mechanisms and develop risk prediction models.
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