Bahrain Sports Cardiology Congress discuss causes of sudden deaths in athletes

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Causes of sudden deaths in athletes, preventions and early detection of heart diseases were the focus of the Sports Cardiology Congress on the second day.

Yesterday, the event witnessed great turnout from sports clubs, professionals and specialists for sessions and workshops. The congress is under the patronage of HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Representative of HM the King for Humanitarian Works and Youth Affairs.

Discussions also focused on the benefits of cupping and the harms of steroids and exercise in hot weather. The conference began yesterday with a discussion on a study of the rate of sudden death among athletes.

Studies say the rate is minor and varies with countries. It ranges from 1 per 40,000 athletes to 1 per 80,000 athletes according to the type of sport. The conference also discussed the causes for sudden deaths in professional athletes or sports activists.

For people aged below 35 years, Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is one of the most common causes of sudden death. Another cause is a defect in the Cardiac ducts such as short and long QT syndrome and “Brugada” syndrome, in addition to histological right ventricular disease, coronary artery malformations, and coronary artery blockage.

Participants, in general, highlighted the importance of proper exercise, education and awareness of health and medical basis that everyone must observe to enjoy a healthy life.