A new study published in the European Heart Journal reveals that sudden cardiac death (SCD) accounts for a significant number of deaths among male bodybuilders, especially at the professional level.
The study found that among 20,286 male bodybuilders who competed between 2005 and 2020, 121 deaths were identified. The average age at death was 45, and 38% were due to sudden cardiac death. Professional bodybuilders were found to have a fivefold higher risk of SCD compared to amateur competitors.
In the cases where autopsy and toxicology data were available, findings included: heart enlargement or thickening, coronary artery disease, and use of anabolic steroids and other performance-enhancing drugs
Researchers noted that the demands of competitive bodybuilding—such as intense strength training, rapid weight manipulation, and substance use—can place immense stress on the heart, which could lead to structural changes and increased risk of arrhythmias.
The study underscores the importance of:
- Cardiac screening for athletes involved in strength sports, even if they appear healthy
- Avoidance of performance-enhancing substances
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Medical oversight and education around the long-term cardiovascular risks of extreme bodybuilding practices
Read the full article here.
SOURCE: European Heart Journal