COMPETITIVE BODYBUILDERS ARE AT HIGH RISK OF SUDDEN CARDIAC DEATH

COMPETITIVE BODYBUILDERS ARE AT HIGH RISK OF SUDDEN CARDIAC DEATH Male bodybuilders—especially those who compete at the professional level—face a notably high risk of sudden cardiac death, according to research published in the European Heart Journal on May 20, 2025. The study, led by Dr. Marco Vecchiato of the University of Padova, Italy, found that sudden cardiac death accounts for a disproportionate share of fatalities among male bodybuilders globally, with the highest risk observed in professionals. Sudden cardiac death, which refers to an unexpected death caused by heart malfunction, is rare among young and seemingly healthy individuals. Yet, it frequently stems from underlying cardiac conditions. This new research highlights the unique health risks of competitive bodybuilding and underscores the need for increased awareness, preventive measures, and policy changes within the sport. For the study, Dr. Vecchiato and colleagues compiled a list of 20,286 male bodybuilders who h...