Are Bodybuilders at Higher Risk of Sudden Heart Death?
Are Bodybuilders at Higher Risk of Sudden Heart Death?
Date: June 20, 2025
Source: European Heart Journal, via Univadis Italy / Medscape Network
Simple Summary:
1. A study followed over 20,000 male bodybuilders who took part in IFBB events (International Fitness and Bodybuilding Federation) from 2005 to 2020.
2. 121 men died, and 46 of those deaths were confirmed as sudden heart-related deaths.
3. Most of the sudden deaths happened around age 35.
4. Professional bodybuilders had a much higher risk of dying suddenly compared to non-professionals.
5. Many of the athletes who died had enlarged hearts and thick heart walls.
6. Possible reasons include:
• Very intense workouts
• Unhealthy dieting and dehydration
• Use of steroids or performance-enhancing drugs
7. In many cases, bodybuilders do not get regular heart check-ups. Some never see a doctor until symptoms appear.
8. Mental health is also a concern: some deaths were related to risky behaviors or emotional issues.
9. Experts recommend:
• Better heart screening for athletes
• More education about safe training and nutrition
• Stronger& tighter rules and more testing to prevent the use of illegal performance-enhancing drugs)
