Story perspectives

Study Reveals Heart Risks for Older Male Athletes

11/3/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A University of Leeds study finds older male endurance athletes face higher risk of life-threatening heart rhythms from long-term high-intensity exercise.
The study involved 106 male athletes over 50 and found 47% had heart scarring, higher than non-athletes.
During the study, 22% experienced ventricular tachycardia, often linked to prior scarring.
Dr. Peter Swoboda urged health checks for dizziness or chest pain.
Despite concerns, regular exercise remains beneficial for heart health.

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Story summary

A University of Leeds study finds older male endurance athletes face higher risk of life-threatening heart rhythms from long-term high-intensity exercise.
The study involved 106 male athletes over 50 and found 47% had heart scarring, higher than non-athletes.
During the study, 22% experienced ventricular tachycardia, often linked to prior scarring.
Dr. Peter Swoboda urged health checks for dizziness or chest pain.
Despite concerns, regular exercise remains beneficial for heart health.