A short article at SFGate (San Francisco Chronicle) shares some information about cardiovascular risks associated with running….and again suggests the value in careful pre-participation screening. Another article that relates to my previous post, “Who Needs a Doctor?”
Follow-Up: Detroit Marathon Deaths
I continue to receive questions about the deaths of 3 runners during the half marathon in Detroit this past weekend. I understand from the popular press that additional tests are needed before the autopsy reports can be finalized. More on that when additional information is available.
These deaths have stimulated a lot of discussion, though. There was an interesting article in the New York Times yesterday, entitled “Are Marathons Safe?” Some food for thought. Marathons, like any endurance sporting event, place a heavy demand on the cardiovascular system, so it shouldn’t be surprising that an occasional participant dies a sudden cardiac death. But it’s important to keep things in perspective….the risk is real but very, very small for any individual participant.
These sudden deaths in sporting events should motivate us to be more vigilant about screening for cardiovascular disease in athletes and paying attention to potential warning signs that deserve investigation.
In the News: Deaths at Detroit Marathon
Several people have asked me about the 3 deaths that occurred during the Detroit Marathon on Sunday. At this point, I don’t know anything more than what’s been reported in the popular press. This article from clickondetroit.com summarizes the events that led to the deaths of 3 runners, ages 26, 36, and 65, in the half marathon event.
Autopsies are being performed today and more information should be available shortly. I’ll bet that cardiovascular causes are responsible and I’ll report back when I know more.