FAQ on Scar Tissue in Athletes' Hearts and Its Link to Dangerous Cardiac Rhythms

What is the main finding of the VENTOUX study?

The study found that scar tissue in the heart was associated with abnormal heart rhythms among healthy, long-time male endurance athletes age 50 or older, potentially increasing their risk of sudden cardiac death.

Why is this study significant?

This study is significant because it links myocardial fibrosis, or heart scarring, to dangerous heart rhythms in otherwise healthy endurance athletes, a finding that was unexpected and could help in ensuring safer participation in sports as athletes age.

How was the study conducted?

The study involved 106 male cyclists and triathletes over age 50 with no symptoms of heart disease, who underwent cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging and had an ECG recorder implanted to monitor heartbeats over two years.

What percentage of athletes showed signs of heart scarring?

Almost half of the athletes (47.2%) showed signs of scarring on the left ventricle of the heart.

What percentage of athletes experienced dangerous heart rhythms?

About 3% of the athletes had sustained, potentially dangerous fast heart rates originating in the lower chambers of the heart, while 19% experienced shorter bursts of rapid heartbeats.

What advice does the study offer to athletes?

Athletes experiencing chest pain, dizziness, or palpitations during activity should seek treatment, and it’s important for everyone involved in sports to know CPR and how to use an automated external defibrillator.

Who conducted the VENTOUX study?

The study was conducted by researchers at the University of Leeds in the U.K., with senior study author Peter Swoboda, M.B.B.S., Ph.D., an associate professor of cardiology.

Where was the study published?

The study was published in Circulation: Cardiovascular Imaging, an American Heart Association journal.

What is ventricular tachycardia?

Ventricular tachycardia is an irregular rhythm originating from a ventricular heart chamber, considered one of the most serious types of abnormal heart rhythm, which can lead to sudden cardiac death.