Sudden cardiac death is responsible for an unusually high proportion of deaths in male bodybuilders worldwide with the highest risk among professional bodybuilders, according to research published in the European Heart Journal [1] today (Wednesday).
Sudden cardiac death is when someone dies suddenly and unexpectedly due to a problem with their heart. It is generally rare in young and apparently healthy individuals, but it is often linked to underlying heart conditions.
Researchers say their findings highlight the health risks associated with competitive bodybuilding and suggest the need for greater awareness, preventive strategies and policy changes within this community.
The study was led by Dr Marco Vecchiato from the University of Padova, Italy. He said: "As a sports and exercise physician, I have come close to the bodybuilding world, and this has given me the opportunity to see not only its many positive aspects, such as the promotion of fitness and self-discipline, but also some of the challenges and risks that are inherently part of this discipline.
