STRUCTURE AND FREQUENCY OF COVID-19 INCIDENCE AMONG ATHLETES OF DIFFERENT SPECIALIZATIONS

Abstract

Aim. This study aimed to investigate the frequency and structure of COVID-19 incidence among athletes undergoing medical examinations during the pandemic. Materials and methods. A cohort of 33,702 professional athletes from national teams in Moscow was examined. The assessment included comprehensive surveys, clinical examinations, PCR testing for SARS-CoV-2, electrocardiography (ECG), and echocardiography (EchoCG). Results. The proportion of athletes who recovered from COVID-19 increased significantly, from 12.8% in 2020 to 72% in 2022. The overall incidence rate among athletes was 58.3 ± 10.8%. Athletes engaged in mixed training regimens exhibited a significantly higher incidence rate (p < 0.05) compared to those specializing in endurance or strength training. Conclusion. The incidence of COVID-19 among professional athletes was higher than in the general population. However, 38% of cases were asymptomatic, and pneumonia was detected in only 0.7% of the cohort.