Cardiovascular disease in athletes

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Sports Medicine
• Exercise Physiology

Background:

• Athletes are perceived as healthy, yet can harbor life-threatening cardiovascular abnormalities.
• Intense physical exertion in athletes with underlying cardiac disease can precipitate sudden cardiac death.
• Repetitive, intense exercise induces cardiac functional and morphologic changes, termed "athlete's heart."

Purpose of the Study:

• To review cardiovascular diseases posing risks for sudden cardiac death in athletes.
• To discuss the limitations of cardiovascular preparticipation screening examinations.
• To outline evaluation processes for symptomatic athletes and guidelines for return-to-sport eligibility.

Main Methods:

• Review of cardiovascular diseases relevant to athletes and sudden cardiac death.
• Analysis of the cardiovascular preparticipation screening examination.
• Discussion of symptomatic athlete evaluation and return-to-sport guidelines.

Main Results:

• Certain cardiovascular diseases can limit athletic participation and increase sudden cardiac death risk.
• Preparticipation screening has limitations in detecting all at-risk athletes.
• Clear evaluation and return-to-sport protocols are necessary for athlete safety.

Conclusions:

• Physicians, coaches, and trainers must recognize potential cardiovascular risks in athletes.
• Comprehensive screening and evaluation are crucial for preventing sudden cardiac death in sports.
• Guidelines are needed to manage athletes with cardiovascular conditions and ensure safe participation.