How prevalent is the Female Athlete Triad among the female athlete population?
Researchers estimate that between 15-62% of the female athletic population display disordered eating behaviors. The extent of amenorrhea among female athletes falls between 3-66%, depending on the definition that is used. Preventing and Treating the Female Athlete Triad Preventing the triad can only happen through proper education—coaches, athletic trainers, parents and athletes must be well informed about the female athlete triad. The female athlete triad can be prevented and treated in the following ways: • Mandate annual screening of the triad for female athletes/dancers • Mandate preseason education • Mandate education for parents of athletes who are 18 years of age or younger • Mandate education for coaches and athletic trainers • Clearly define referral guidelines • Clearly define treatment guidelines • Clearly define sports participation guidelines when symptoms of the triad become present • Promote healthy stress-management behaviors and tactics • Promote community awareness of
