Sport and alcohol consumption: early identification and management prevention

Alcohol consumption represents the leading cause of death and disability under the age of 24. Among the most frequent physical problems there is certainly musculoskeletal damage. This creates problems in carrying out physical activity and sports. The aim of this narrative review is to assess the size of the problem of alcohol consumption and sport, the motivations and possible solutions. This narrative review is based on a detailed analysis of the scientific literature published before June 30th, 2024 (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar). In sporting contexts there is a higher consumption of alcoholic beverages than in the general population. Alcohol is used during moments of socialization or during the celebration of some event or anniversary. Through sponsorship, alcohol is associated with success, beauty and even health. Alcohol consumption is not compatible with sporting activities. It reduces its positive effects and limits its quality. Moreover, alcohol induces muscle, bone and brain damage. Sports clubs have a duty to address the alcohol problem. It is mandatory, on the one hand, early identification of athletes who have risky alcohol consumption and on the other, promoting education initiatives on correct lifestyles with the involvement of the community to which they belong. It is also appropriate promote with force laws that prohibit the association of alcohol consumption to sport.