The Female Athlete TRIAD among Indian Athletes

Female athlete TRIAD (FAT) consist of Disorders Eating (DE), Menstrual Dysfunction (MD), and Reduced bone mineral density (BMD) This study investigated the awareness, prevalence and impact of the FAT, DE, MD and reduced BMD and Osteoporosis among 100 national-level female athletes in India aged 16-30. Using a survey-based, self-structured questionnaire, the study assessed awareness, occurrence, and performance impacts of the TRIAD. Results revealed a high prevalence of DE was 76%, MD was 71%, and low BMD was 17%, with knowledge gaps. While 76% of athletes were aware of DE, understanding varied, and 64% engaged in sel-fdirected, often harmful weight management. MD was common, but only 12% took medical evaluation. BMD awareness was low 37%, and 30% reported training-related fractures. 12% confirmed the presence of all three TRIAD components. Awareness of the TRIAD was limited 40%, and 55% were unaware of sport-specific risks. The study highlighted the interconnectedness of these conditions, with DE contributing to MD and increased fracture risk. Furthermore 12% of athletes diagnosed with TRIAD dropped out of sports due to decreased performance and low energy. The findings underscore the need for targeted educational programs, nutritional guidance, and improved access to specialized medical support to the health and performance of female athletes and reduce dropouts.