Background: Sudden cardiac death (SCD) in athletes, though rare, continues to make headlines, raising questions about its underlying causes. Athletes are generally healthy, yet life-threatening cardiac events can occur unexpectedly in those without prior symptoms. Early detection of high-risk cardiac conditions is critical for prevention. Main text: Sports cardiology is an emerging specialty focused on the cardiovascular health of competitive athletes and highly active individuals, including those with known or undiagnosed heart disease. It encompasses structural, functional, and electrical cardiac assessment, exercise physiology, and preventive strategies. Screening and preparticipation evaluation are vital to identify hidden cardiovascular risks and differentiate physiological adaptations from pathology. This review highlights the importance of sports cardiology in optimizing cardiovascular performance, preventing SCD, and managing cardiovascular conditions such as arrhythmias, cardiomyopathies, coronary artery disease, and hypertension in physically active populations. Conclusions: Sports cardiology is rapidly evolving and plays a crucial role in safeguarding the health of athletes and active individuals. Optimal care requires an integrated approach, specialized knowledge, and targeted research initiatives to ensure safe participation in competitive and recreational exercise while minimizing cardiovascular risks.
© Copyright 2026 Journal of Human Sport & Exercise. University of Alicante. Alle Rechte vorbehalten.