Download or read book Collegiate Coaches' Knowledge of the Female Athlete Triad written by Pamela L. Findlay and published by . This book was released on 2011 with total page 130 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: "Introduction: The female athlete triad is characterized by disordered eating, menstrual dysfunction, and low bone mineral density (BMD). The triad affects many active females and can lead to long-term health problems if left untreated. Because collegiate athletes are especially susceptible to the triad, it is recommended that collegiate coaches be aware of prevention strategies, risk factors, symptoms, health consequences, and treatment procedures associated with the triad. The purpose of this study was to investigate the level of knowledge that NCAA Division II head coaches of female sports (basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, tennis, track and field, volleyball) have regarding the female athlete triad. Methods: A 27-item survey was administered through an online survey service to all NCAA Division II head coaches of the most highly sponsored female sports. The survey included 15 statements about the triad to be characterized as either true of false. Coaches earned one point for each statement that was correctly identified as true or false to determine their knowledge score on a 15-point scale. The knowledge scores were compared by coaches' sex (male, female), sport type (lean, non-lean, both), and experience (limited, moderate, considerable). A 2 x 3 x 3 ANOVA was used to analyze these independent variables. Results: General knowledge of the triad among coaches appeared to be at a high level, but knowledge of its signs and symptoms was limited. Male and female coaches had similar knowledge scores. Coaches of lean sports had significantly higher knowledge scores than coaches of non-lean sports. Coaches with moderate experience had significantly greater knowledge scores that inexperienced coaches. Discussion and Conclusion: Regular, detailed education for coaches on the triad with an emphasis on recognizing symptoms is recommended. To ensure full comprehension, coaches should also be tested regularly on relevant material"--Abstract.