Presenteeism in Athletes and the Research Potential in Japan

Athletes who train and compete despite health problems are frequently found in competitive sports. In recent years, this phenomenon has been associated with presenteeism that has been studied mainly in occupational health. The research subject is a laborer. Recently, Meyer and Thiel (2018, pp.51-52) applied the concept of presenteeism to athletes as “sickness presenteeism,” which is defined as in the sports context “as training or competing despite having a health problem.” Sickness presenteeism possibly leads to mental illness, burnout, and exacerbation of illnesses and injuries of athletes. Although there are many studies on presenteeism in occupational health, very little exist in sports science. Therefore, this study reviews the literature to investigate presenteeism and its research potential with athletes by examining eight published studies; five by Mayer and his research group. This review focuses on the model of presenteeism created by Mayer and introduces the measurement methods, factors, and influences of presenteeism. The influences of presenteeism can be both negative and positive; therefore, athletes are conflicted about competing while having health problems. Finally, we described the possibilities and prospects for presenteeism research with athletes in Japan.