Injury and Disease in Former Collegiate Athletes

It is well documented that cardiorespiratory exercise, as well as muscular strength and endurance exercise, have a positive impact on a person’s health [1]. Many positive health benefits arise from moderate intensity exercise including decreased risk of heart disease, cancer, stroke, osteoporosis, and diabetes found in individuals who engage in regular physical activity [1]. The cardiovascular system functions more effectively and the body is better suited to fight disease when it is physically fit [1]. However, there is a point of diminishing returns for these benefits, where overtraining and highintensity exercise may actually increase risk of traumatic injury, reduce health benefits, and impair immunity due to the extreme stress put on the body [1]. Elitelevel athletes undergo training regimens that place them under chronic stress, increasing susceptibility to injuries and overtraining. This review article investigates the incidence of injuries in sport, and future risk of disease in former athletes.