Key result
Resting heart rate was significantly associated with cardiac risk level (p=0.002), with players presenting heart rates ≥76 bpm showing a higher proportion of moderate risk (63.6%).
Why the study?
Sudden cardiac death remains a concern in competitive soccer players, highlighting the need for appropriate cardiovascular screening where routine protocols are inconsistently implemented.
Cross-Sectional (n=105)
Yes
Resting ECG screening of South African professional soccer players revealed a significant proportion of moderate to high-risk cardiac abnormalities, emphasizing the need for routine pre-participation cardiovascular screening.
Background: High-intensity soccer participation induces benign structural and functional cardiac adaptations collectively known as the athlete’s heart. However, sudden cardiac death (SCD) remains an important concern, emphasising the need for appropriate cardiovascular screening among competitive soccer players, particularly in settings where routine pre-participation cardiac screening protocols are not consistently implemented across all levels of competition nationally. Objectives: To assess resting sport electrocardiogram (ECG) profiles of South African professional soccer players using international consensus standards for ECG interpretation in athletes. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 105 male South African Premier Soccer League players aged 17–39 years. Resting ECGs were recorded using the Custo-med Diagnostic Sport ECG device and interpreted according to international consensus criteria for athlete ECG interpretation. Results: Age and weight were not significantly associated with cardiac risk level (p=0.867 and p=0.400, respectively). Heart rate was significantly associated with risk level (p=0.002), with players presenting heart rates ≥76 bpm showing a higher proportion of moderate risk (63.6%). No significant associations were observed between age, weight, or heart rate and T-wave inversion. Heart rate was significantly associated with right atrial enlargement (p=0.037), particularly among players with heart rates ≥76 bpm, whereas age and weight showed no significant associations. Conclusion: Resting ECG screening may assist with the early identification of potentially important cardiac abnormalities in South African soccer players. Annual ECG screening should be considered for both development and senior squads, together with appropriate clinical follow-up and emergency preparedness. These findings support broader cardiovascular screening strategies aligned with international football medicine recommendations.
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Maqina et al. (2026) conducted a cross-sectional in Athlete's heart and sudden cardiac death risk (n=105). Resting 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) was evaluated on Cardiac risk level based on international consensus standards for ECG interpretation (p=0.002). Resting heart rate was significantly associated with cardiac risk level (p=0.002), with players presenting heart rates ≥76 bpm showing a higher proportion of moderate risk (63.6%).
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