Résumé
Objectives. There is limited data regarding the use of performance enhancing substances among athletes in France. The general practitioner (GP) is the main point of contact for the healthcare needs of recreational athletes. GPs need to adapt their practice to help protect the health of these athletes. The main objective of this study is to estimate the prevalence of use of performance enhancing substances among athletes presenting to primary care centers. Secondary objectives are to collect information about the users’ motivations, the source of information regarding consumption and where patients purchased the substances.Methods. All athletes presenting to general medical practices between the 24th of August 2020 and the 06th of November 2020 were invited to answer an anonymous questionnaire. A total of 40 randomized physicians of Herault, France, participated in the study. Information was provided to patients via posters and flyers in the practice waiting rooms. The athletes were able to submit an online or paper version of the questionnaire.Results. A total of 281 athletes submitted the questionnaire. The average age was 39.7 years (+/- 14.9) and 54.5% were male (n=153). More than 96% were recreational athletes (n=272) and 59.9% report using a least one substance. Two thirds (66.9%) of consumers report using dietary supplements, 67.5% medications and 13.6% illicit drugs or anabolic agents. Primary motivations and the place of purchase depends on the substances used.Conclusion. Almost 60% of recreational athletes consulting to primary care centers report using performance enhancing substances. We recommend that general practice physicians use this opportunity to question and screen for substance use to help protect the athlete’s health.