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Health

Olympians should be screened for silent heart problems

9 September 2009

New Scientist. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

Spanish international defender Antonio Puerta died after suffering a heart attack during a Spanish league match

(Image: Cristina Quicler / AFP / Getty)

ATHLETES the world over should face tests for hidden heart problems – and potential disqualification if any are detected.

That’s the conclusion of a collection of studies into the practicality and effectiveness of such tests, carried out at the behest of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

A number of seemingly healthy athletes have dropped dead from “sudden cardiac death”, including the Spanish footballer Antonio Puerta (pictured) two years ago and British rower Scott Rennie in March this…

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