Which of the following should be included in an athlete's medical history?

The inclusion of current medication and history of illicit or illegal drug use in an athlete's medical history is essential for several reasons. This information helps healthcare professionals assess the athlete's health status comprehensively and understand any potential implications for physical activity or medical treatment.

Knowing what medications an athlete is currently taking can prevent harmful drug interactions and ensure that any prescriptions are appropriate given their overall health condition. Furthermore, understanding an athlete's history of illicit drug use can help in identifying any substance use issues that could affect their performance, recovery, or long-term health. This information is crucial for developing a tailored training and treatment plan that prioritizes the athlete's safety and well-being.

In contrast, while preferences for certain sports, details of athletic accomplishments, and age at which they started playing sports can provide insights into the athlete's background and experience, they do not directly contribute to the assessment of health risks or medical needs. Therefore, the most critical aspect to include in a medical history, as it pertains to athlete safety, is the context of current medication and substance use history.