A review article of the cardiovascular sequalae in esport athletes: A cause for concern?

Abstract

The esports industry has grown exponentially and is expected to flourish rapidly in the coming years. Awareness about the cardiovascular sequalae in elite esports athletes has gained considerable momentum. Evidence supporting systematic screening in esports athletes is however lacking. In this narrative review, we discuss potential negative health effects on the cardiovascular system in esports enthusiasts. The pathophysiological mechanisms discussed in this narrative review may put esports athletes at an increased risk of cardiovascular events. Although large studies in esports athletes to substantiate these claims are inexistent, case reports or case-controlled studies have been included to support our hypotheses. Sleep deprivation, psychological stress, altered arterial stiffness, hypertension, and heart rate variability are some of these proposed mechanisms. The available data are unfortunately extrapolated from small cohorts. Nevertheless, the risk of sudden cardiac death is an important health concern, which should be addressed appropriately. This review will raise awareness about the possible negative impact on the cardiovascular system in esports athletes.

Keywords: Athlete; Cardiovascular complications; Esports; Sleep deprivation.