Current Health Issues of Performing Artists: Implications for Health Promotion

Abstract

Performers frequently struggle with physical and emotional health issues that are at times debilitating. Numerous studies have documented the importance of health interventions for performing artists to prevent injuries and illnesses. In this report, a review of the current literature is discussed, with an emphasis on the primary health problems including musculoskeletal pain and injuries, anxiety and depression, eating disorders, and heart disease. Risk factors include irregular work hours, frequent travel, increased physical and emotional demands, overuse of muscle groups, poor physical activity, and inadequate dietary habits. Though performers’ awareness of health issues and preventive practices has improved in the past 30 years, many risk factors persist. The upside is that most of the risk factors are preventable. Since health problems typically surface when performers are in the stages of rigorous preparation, health promotion efforts should begin in the training programs that can set the tone for positive health habits throughout professional careers. Logical initiatives could include the development, analysis, and evaluation of professional training curricula to address health issues specific to this target population.