Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 25, 2026
07:02
Utilizing the Modified T-Maze to Assess Functional Memory Outcomes After Cardiac Arrest
Published on: January 5, 2018
Cardiac arrest during long-distance running races
Jonathan H Kim1, Rajeev Malhotra, George Chiampas
1Division of Cardiology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
The New England Journal of Medicine
|January 13, 2012
Summary
Long-distance running races like marathons have a low overall risk of cardiac arrest. However, male marathon runners face a higher incidence, with survival linked to prompt CPR and specific diagnoses.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Sports Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Millions participate annually in US long-distance running events.
- Concerns exist regarding cardiac arrest safety during marathons and half-marathons.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the incidence and outcomes of cardiac arrest in US marathon and half-marathon races.
- To identify risk factors and predictors of survival for race-associated cardiac arrest.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of cardiac arrest cases from 2000-2010.
- Data collection via interviews, medical records, and postmortem analysis.
- Calculation of incidence rates and confidence intervals for various subgroups.
Main Results:
- 59 cardiac arrests occurred among 10.9 million runners (0.54/100,000).
- Incidence was higher in marathons vs. half-marathons and in men vs. women.
- Male marathon runners showed an increasing incidence over the decade; 71% of arrests were fatal.
- Bystander CPR and non-hypertrophic cardiomyopathy diagnoses predicted survival.
Conclusions:
- Marathons and half-marathons present a low overall risk of cardiac arrest and sudden death.
- Cardiac arrest in runners is often linked to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or coronary disease.
- Male marathon participants represent the highest-risk group, with increasing incidence observed.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Introduction Cardiac Emergencies
Cardiac emergencies are critical situations involving the heart that require immediate medical intervention to prevent severe complications or death. These emergencies often arise from underlying heart conditions that impair the heart's ability to function correctly.Types of Cardiac EmergenciesThe most common types of cardiac emergencies include Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS), myocardial infarction (MI), cardiac arrest, and heart failure.Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)...
01:30Coronary Artery Disease III: Clinical Manifestations
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a primary health risk worldwide, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. The condition arises from the buildup of atherosclerotic plaques within the coronary arteries, resulting in diminished blood supply to the heart muscle.The clinical manifestations of CAD vary widely, from asymptomatic stages to severe, life-threatening conditions. Understanding these manifestations is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management.Angina Pectoris: The Warning...
01:25Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation IV: Pharmacological Management
Pharmacologic intervention is crucial in treating cardiac arrest patients during ACLS or Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support. The ACLS algorithms guide the administration of specific drugs based on the patient's cardiac arrest rhythm, which includes pulseless ventricular tachycardia (VT), ventricular fibrillation (VF), asystole, and pulseless electrical activity (PEA).EpinephrineIndication: Epinephrine is the first-line drug for all cardiac arrest rhythms.Mechanism of Action: Epinephrine...
01:20Exercise and Cardiovascular Response
Exercise significantly impacts cardiovascular response, which is crucial for understanding patient health and designing effective treatment plans.
Light to moderate physical activity initiates a series of interconnected responses in the body. The heart rate modestly increases in anticipation of the workout, followed by widespread vasodilation as oxygen consumption by skeletal muscles increases. This results in decreased peripheral resistance, increased capillary blood flow, and accelerated...
Light to moderate physical activity initiates a series of interconnected responses in the body. The heart rate modestly increases in anticipation of the workout, followed by widespread vasodilation as oxygen consumption by skeletal muscles increases. This results in decreased peripheral resistance, increased capillary blood flow, and accelerated...
01:23Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation III: AED Use
Introduction to AEDAn Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a portable medical device that analyzes the heart's rhythm and, if necessary, delivers an electrical shock to help the heart re-establish an effective rhythm during sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). SCA occurs when the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating, leading to a loss of blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. In such emergencies, time is of the essence, and using an AED, combined with Cardiopulmonary...
01:21Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation I: Adult
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR, is a life-saving emergency procedure performed when a person's heart has stopped beating or they are no longer breathing. The foundation of CPR is Basic Life Support (BLS), which focuses on the early recognition of cardiac arrest, the immediate start of high-quality chest compressions, and the timely use of an automated external defibrillator (AED).Assessing Responsiveness and Checking the Carotid PulseWhen approaching an unresponsive person, first ensure...