Periodical preparticipation physical examinations of athletes in different European countries

Abstract

There are no uniform recommendations about the timing, type or frequency of periodical pre-participation physical examination (PPE).The aim of this study was to evaluate the characteristics of PPE applied in different European countries (EC). The evaluation was done for 27EC according to data of EFSMA and lows of sport. The PPE is mandatory for all competitive athletes in 51.9 % and only for elite athletes in 11.1 % of the EC. In Russia, Croatia and France PPE is mandatory for every person who practiced physical activity. Recommended frequency of PPE is yearly in 57.9 % of the EC. The composition of PPE include minimum of questionnaire, physical examination and ECG at rest. Conclusion: In most of the European countries PPE is mandatory for all competitive sports, is recommended yearly and it is not covered by the regular insurance. There is need for unification because of big differences in composition of the PPE.