Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

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

1. Brain aneurysm

2. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

3. Left ventricular hypertrophy

4. Aortic stenosis

The correct answer is: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is recognized as the most common cause of sudden cardiac death in athletes, particularly in young individuals participating in competitive sports. This genetic condition is characterized by an abnormal thickening of the heart muscle, which can impede effective blood flow and disrupt the normal electrical activity in the heart. During intense physical exertion, the risk of arrhythmias increases significantly, which can lead to sudden death. Identification and screening for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy are crucial, especially given that many athletes may present with few or no symptoms. Regular cardiac screenings and awareness of family history can play a vital role in detection. The condition is often undiagnosed until a serious event occurs, making education on symptoms, risk factors, and recommended screenings particularly important among young athletes and their coaches. Understanding this condition's prevalence in the context of athletics emphasizes the need for proactive cardiac evaluation in young athletes to prevent tragic outcomes associated with undiagnosed heart conditions.