Triathlon and Risk of Sudden Death

Research presented at the American College of Cardiology 2009 Scientific Sessions demonstrates that the risk of sudden death is higher during a triathlon than during a marathon. Most deaths occur during the swim portion of the race and the average age of those who died was 42 years old.

I think that the take-home message here is that athletes, particularly those who do not compete regularly in races or those who have cardiovascular risk factors, should be screened by their physicians before racing.