Prevalencia de factores de riesgo comportamentales en entrenadores de la Liga Santandereana de Fútbol

Abstract

Chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are one of the main public health problems worldwide, related to risk factors such as alcohol consumption, tobacco, inadequate diet and physical inactivity. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of behavioral risk factors in coaches of the Santander Football League, who are key figures in sports training and in the promotion of healthy habits. A cross-sectional descriptive approach was carried out, applying the World Health Organization's STEPS questionnaire to one hundred trainers (94 men and 6 women). The variables analyzed included the consumption of tobacco, alcohol, fruits, vegetables and physical activity levels. The results showed that 82% of the coaches consume alcohol, 11% smoke, and 91% have low consumption of fruits and vegetables. In contrast, all participants meet the recommended levels of physical activity according to the WHO. These findings show the existence of risky behaviors in a population that serves as a model for young athletes. In conclusion, high alcohol consumption and insufficient intake of fruits and vegetables represent the main behavioral risk factors in coaches in the Santander Football League. These results reflect the need to implement intervention strategies that strengthen healthy habits and reduce risk behaviors in coaches, thus promoting healthier sports environments that are consistent with their training function.