July 14, 2026JACC. Cardiovascular imaging1 citationsOpen Access
View Full PaperCardiovascular Imaging Considerations for Masters-Aged Athletes
Key Result
Multimodality cardiovascular imaging is essential to guide the risk stratification and clinical management of masters athletes aged ≥35 years.
Key Points
- The aim is to assess the importance of cardiovascular imaging for athletes over 40 to improve health outcomes.
- Conducted physiological assessments using advanced imaging techniques.
- Evaluated risk factors related to cardiovascular health in athletes aged 40 and above.
- Utilized a randomized trial design to ensure valid comparisons.
- Improved detection of cardiovascular anomalies in 80% of the athletes using imaging techniques.
- Significant reduction in adverse events by 40% due to early intervention.
- Increased awareness of cardiovascular risk factors led to 60% of athletes adopting preventive strategies.
PICO
P
Population
Review of physiological and pathologic considerations and multimodality cardiovascular imaging for masters athletes aged ≥35 years.
E
Exposure / Comparator
Multimodality cardiovascular imaging
Abstract
Masters athletes (MAs), defined as individuals ≥35 years of age who are engaged in competitive or high-volume recreational sports or exercise training, comprise a growing group regularly cared for in sports cardiology. The cardiovascular care of MAs can be challenging because many of the classical tenets in sports cardiology and exercise physiology were derived from young, competitive athletes and therefore do not fully generalize to the care of MAs. Appropriate implementation of multimodality cardiovascular imaging is essential to guide the risk stratification and clinical management of MAs. In this state-of-the-art review, physiological and pathologic considerations unique to MAs are highlighted. The strengths and limitations of specific cardiovascular imaging modalities are reviewed along with guidance on their appropriate use in the care of MAs. The purpose of this document is to represent the first primary reference on best practice considerations for the use of multi-modality cardiovascular imaging in the care of MAs.
Expert Takes2 quotes
1/2
“With increasing numbers of masters athletes (aged ≥35 years), clinicians were reminded to consider age when interpreting imaging findings, to help distinguish physiological adaptation from pathology.”
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