PSYCHO-PHYSIOLOGICAL IMPACT OF PARASITIC INFECTIONS ON ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE AMONG COMPETITIVE ATHLETES IN PORT HARCOURT METROPOLIS

Background: Parasitic infections remain a significant public health concern in tropical regions like Nigeria, where athletes are not exempt from the physiological and psychological consequences of these diseases. Despite the increasing emphasis on optimal sports performance, the role of parasitic diseases in undermining athletic ability and mental readiness remains underexplored, particularly in urban centers like Port Harcourt metropolis. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of parasitic infections among athletes in Port Harcourt and examine how these infections affect their physiological performance and psychological well-being. Methods: A cross-sectional mixed-method study was conducted with 60 athletes aged 16–30, selected from sports clubs, schools, and universities in Port Harcourt. Data were collected through laboratory screening (malaria RDT and microscopy, stool analysis using the Formol-Ether Concentration Technique), physiological tests (VO₂ max via 20m shuttle run, strength and endurance tests), and psychological assessments using the Competitive State Anxiety Inventory-2 (CSAI-2) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS, while qualitative insights were explored through thematic analysis. Results: The findings revealed that 41.7% of the athletes tested positive for at least one parasitic infection. Infected athletes demonstrated lower VO₂ max scores and diminished muscular strength and endurance compared to non-infected counterparts. Psychologically, infected athletes recorded higher cognitive and somatic anxiety levels and lower self-confidence, with mild to moderate depressive symptoms present in over 50% of infected participants. Conclusion: Parasitic infections significantly compromise both the physiological capacity and psychological readiness of athletes, thereby hindering optimal performance. Integrated intervention strategies—combining regular health screening, psychological support, and environmental hygiene—are essential for safeguarding athlete health and enhancing sports performance.