Sudden Deaths: A Serious Concern in Spanish Sports
Every year in Spain, approximately 30,000 sudden deaths occur, as reported by the Spanish Society of Cardiology. These deaths, categorized as sudden cardiac death and sudden death of athletes, occur without any apparent cause. Miguel Enrique del Valle, president of the Spanish Society of Sports Medicine and a professor at the University of Oviedo, defines sudden death as an unexpected event resulting from a natural cause, not traumatic or violent.
Sudden cardiac death involves a sudden, non-traumatic cardiac arrest within about six hours of symptom onset, while sudden death of athletes occurs during training or competition or within an hour of sports practice. The latter is the most common cause of unexpected athlete deaths, often attributed to heart disease, either congenital or due to coronary artery disease.
Identifying at-risk athletes can be challenging, as nearly 90% of sudden deaths occur in people with preexisting cardiac anomalies, often without any prior symptoms. Screening through medical examinations and tests is crucial to detect any potential risks. Common warning signs include chest pain, syncope, difficulty breathing, palpitations, and high blood pressure.
Certain cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia, increase the risk of sudden death, especially in younger athletes. While competitive sports like football, cycling, and running are frequently associated with sudden deaths, it is essential to consider individualized risk factors and family history.
In cases where cardiovascular diseases are identified, precautions must be taken, and athletes may need to refrain from professional sports. Still, with proper treatment and monitoring, many athletes can safely return to sports. Regular medical examinations, including ECGs and stress tests, play a crucial role in preventing sudden deaths among athletes.
Preventive measures, such as avoiding risky environmental conditions and promoting CPR techniques, are important in reducing the risk of sudden deaths. Automatic external defibrillators should be readily available in sports facilities to ensure prompt response in case of a cardiac emergency. Overall, early detection, risk assessment, and appropriate management are key in preventing sudden deaths among athletes.