Caribbean Medical Journal (Jun 2025)
Injury prevalence from recreational sport and exercise participation in the general adult population of Trinidad and Tobago
Abstract
Objective: This study sought to determine the prevalence and epidemiology of self-reported injuries from recreational sport and exercise participation in the general adult population of Trinidad and Tobago. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted via structured telephone interviews. Quota random sampling was done using the Regional Health Authorities' geographical distribution. Phone numbers were randomly selected from the 2019 print telephone directory using computer-generated random numbers that were matched to the names counting from the top of the page for each zone. Persons 18-years and older from each household, who met the inclusion criteria, were invited to participate. Data on self-reported injuries from July to December 2019 was captured. Results: A total of 1035 persons (58% males, 42% females) completed the study. The mean age was 45.0 years ± 19.8 years. Major ethnic groups were represented, namely Indian, African, and Mixed. Fourteen percent of the sample had sustained an injury from participating in sport or exercise during the time of interest. The estimated probability of sustaining an injury during recreational sport and exercise was 0.27% or 27 injuries per 10,000 occurrences of exercise activity. Injuries were more prevalent in younger persons, males and those with a higher level of education. Most were engaged in weights/resistance training at the time of injury. Conclusion: The pattern of injury from participation in recreational sport and exercise was similar to that of other countries, with prevalence being highest among young males and those with higher education levels. These injuries should be a public health concern and consideration should be given to employing sports medicine specialists at primary care facilities and driving injury prevention campaigns alongside physical activity ones.
