Sports Cardiology Project

Systematic cardiology screening (that is an evaluation of the heart) is of major importance for athletes and forms part of our pre evaluation. Systematic cardiological evaluation has been shown to reduce the incidence of sudden death in elite sportspeople. This is because the major cause of sudden death among athletes in training and competition is due to underlying cardiac abnormalities.

However, these abnormalities are difficult to diagnose because training induces the so-called “Athlete’s Heart Syndrome” with electrocardiogram (ECG) and echocardiogram abnormalities that are difficult to distinguish from factors that may cause sudden death.

Cardiology screening includes the medical history, physical examination and ECG. ECG is a key in the screening process, enhancing the likelihood of detecting heart disease when combined with medical history and physical examination. It is recommended that cardiac screening is initiated at the beginning of the competitive activity (12–14 years) and repeated at least every two years depending on the nature of the sport practiced.

Aspetar works with internationally recognised sports cardiology specialists and is involved in international collaborative research to ensure that the highest level of cover is attained.