What is the most common cause of sudden death among athletes?

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is recognized as the most common cause of sudden cardiac death in athletes, particularly those under the age of 35. This condition is characterized by the abnormal thickening of the heart muscle, which can obstruct blood flow and lead to arrhythmias. The increased muscle mass can lead to complications such as ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation, especially during intense physical exertion, which may result in sudden cardiac arrest.

When considering other potential causes of sudden death in athletes, while they do pose risks, they are less frequently the direct cause. For example, brain aneurysms, though potentially life-threatening, are relatively rare and less associated with athletic activity compared to HCM. Left ventricular hypertrophy, while a serious condition that can arise from various cardiac conditions, is often considered a consequence of long-term pressure overload rather than a primary cause of sudden death in athletes. Aortic stenosis, which can also lead to syncope or sudden cardiac events during vigorous exercise, is less prevalent than HCM as a direct cause among competitive athletes.

Hence, the overwhelming recognition of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy as the leading cause is due to its prevalence in young athletes and the dramatic potential for acute fatal outcomes in