Characterizing the perception of deceptive placebo and open-label placebo among athletes and coaches

• Grant number: 24/20745-5
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• Start date: January 01, 2025
• End date: December 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Physical Education
• Principal Investigator: Bryan Saunders
• Grantee: Mariana de Oliveira Oliveira Parodi
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina (FM). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 21/06836-0 - Placebo in sports and exercise: prevalence, conditioning and open-placebo, AP.JP2

Abstract

Placebo and nocebo were defined as a desirable or undesirable outcome in sports performance, respectively, with magnitudes ranging from small to moderate. The placebo effect has been reported by athletes and used by health professionals in various studies, demonstrating that its use surpasses the scientific environment and applies to practical contexts. Results from these studies indicate that previous experience with the placebo effect, belief in the efficacy of a supplement, and coaches at a higher level of competition seem to contribute to greater acceptance of this treatment. In these studies, the treatment was employed and perceived as a strategy to enhance sports performance. However, these studies do not consider athletes' perspectives when the intervention does not lead to performance gains, as not all individuals are placebo responders. Consequently, the impact on the level of trust between the professional and the athlete has not been assessed. In this context, open-label placebo appears to address the ethical concerns related to deceptive placebo, as it is offered transparently and with participant consent. However, no studies have yet investigated the acceptance of this treatment. Finally, the literature suggests that the presence of superstitious behaviors, belief in and use of sports supplements, and the level of trust seem to be associated with placebo effect in sports. However, no studies have evaluated the presence of these behaviors in athletes and their relationship with the acceptance of placebo and open-label placebo. The general aim of this study is to explore the experience and perception of athletes and health professionals regarding the use of placebo and open-label placebo in sports. To this end, a cross-sectional and exploratory study will be conducted, with data collection through an electronic questionnaire and convenience sampling.