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.

Myocarditis is a condition marked by inflammation of the heart muscle, which can lead to serious outcomes such as sudden cardiac death (SCD) and life-threatening arrhythmias. While myocarditis can affect any population, athletes, especially those engaged in high-intensity training, are at increased risk due to factors such as reduced immunity and increased exposure to pathogens. This review examines the clinical presentation, current guidelines, diagnostic challenges, and the significance of cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) in detecting myocardial inflammation and scarring. Current guidelines recommend a period of exercise restriction followed by thorough reassessment before athletes can return-to-play (RTP). However, there are several knowledge gaps, including the implications of persistent late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) on CMR and the optimal duration of exercise restriction. Additionally, the psychological impact of myocarditis on athletes highlights the importance of incorporating mental health support in the recovery process. A shared decision-making approach should be encouraged in RTP, considering the athlete’s overall health, personal preferences, and the potential risks of resuming competitive sports. We have proposed an algorithm for RTP in athletes following myocarditis, incorporating CMR. Future research is warranted to refine RTP protocols and improve risk stratification, particularly through longitudinal studies that examine recovery and outcomes in athletes.

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) in young individuals is often unexpected, provoking substantial emotional stress for family and friends of the deceased. Cardiac screening may identify individuals who harbour disorders linked to SCD. The feasibility and diagnostic yield of a nationwide cardiac screening program in adolescents has never been explored. All individuals eligible for cardiac screening (15-year old students) were systematically invited to enrol. Students were provided with a health questionnaire. ECGs were acquired at school. A physician led consultation was carried out on site. Participants with an abnormal screen were then referred for secondary evaluation to the nation's tertiary centre. Feasibility criteria included a) participation rate >60%, b) adherence to secondary evaluation >80% and c) cost per individual screened equating to <€100. The diagnostic yield was also evaluated. At the end of enrolment, 2708 students gave consent (mean 15 years, 50.4% male), equating to 67.9% of the eligible cohort. 109 participant (4.0%) were referred for further evaluation. An abnormal ECG was the commonest reason for referral (3.7%). Fifteen individuals (0.6%) were diagnosed with a cardiac condition. Nine (0.3%) had a condition linked to SCD (n=1 LQTS, n=1 HCM, n=5 WPW, n=2 coronary anomalies). The yield was similar in athletes and non-athletes (p=0.324). The cost per cardiac individual screened equated to €51.15. A nationwide systematic cardiac screening program for adolescent athletes and non-athletes is feasible and cost-efficient, provided that responsible centres have the appropriate infrastructure.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is traditionally associated with exercise restriction due to potential risks, yet recent evidence and guidelines suggest a more permissive stance for low-risk individuals. The aim of this comprehensive review was to examine existing research on the impact of exercise on cardiovascular outcomes, safety, and quality of life in this population and to consider implications for clinical practice. Recent studies suggest that regular exercise and physical activity in low-risk individuals with HCM are associated with positive outcomes in functional capacity, haemodynamic response, and quality of life, with consistent safety. Various studies highlight the safety of moderate-intensity exercise, showing improvements in exercise capacity without adverse cardiac remodelling or significant arrhythmias. Psychological benefits, including reductions in anxiety and depression, were also reported following structured exercise programs. These findings support the integration of individualised exercise regimens in the management of low-risk individuals with HCM, potentially improving overall well-being and cardiovascular health. Adoption of the FITT principle, consideration of individual risk profiles, and shared decision-making are recommended. Future research is warranted to clarify the definition of 'low-risk' for exercise participation and investigate the influence of physical activity on disease progression in HCM. Innovation in therapeutic strategies and lifestyle interventions, alongside improved patient and provider education, will help advance the care and safety of individuals with HCM engaging in exercise.

Understanding positive and negative influences on adult immunization status can help healthcare providers to better identify and target patients who are likely to need immunization. Our aim was to assess and compare influenza and pneumococcal (IV/PV) immunisation rates to identify vaccination predictors in Malta. One group consisted of all medical patients discharged from Mater Dei Hospital (MDH) over a one week period in February 2013. Patients were administered a phone questionnaire. A second group of patients receiving community-based care at local health centres over a one week period in March 2013 were interviewed, identifying vaccination eligibility as per 2010 WHO recommendations. A total of 150 community (Mean age 61.5 SD 15.8, Male 60%) and 149 hospitalised (Mean age 66.8, SD 13.6%, Male 48.3%) patients in whom influenza vaccine was indicated were recruited. In the current year, 44 and 48.3% received the seasonal influenza vaccine, while 32.0, and 49% vaccinated yearly respectively. Pneumococcal vaccination advice was less than 5% in both groups. On stepwise binary regression, vaccination predictors for the current year were regular yearly influenza vaccination (OR 93.62, CI: 31.8–275.5, p < 0.001) and vaccination reminders (OR 27.5, CI: 9.63–78.31, p < 0.001). Nursing home residence (OR 5.78, CI: 1.22–27.4,p = 0.011), congestive cardiac failure (OR 2.11, CI: 1.1–4.08, p = 0.02) and diabetes mellitus (OR 1.68, CI: 1.04–2.72, p = 0.034) were all predictors for vaccination on exclusion of the strongest two predictors. For successive yearly vaccination, influenza vaccine recommendation by healthcare professionals (OR 12.35, CI: 4.5–33.91, p < 0.001) and vaccination reminders (OR 5.99, CI: 3.13–11.45, p < 0.01) were main predictors. Congestive cardiac failure (OR 2.37, CI: 1.20–4.7, p = 0.13) and nursing home residence (OR 7.07, CI: 1.45–34.5, p = 0,005) were also positive predictors. Male gender was a negative predictor (OR 0.51, CI: 0.31–0.83, p = 0.006). Some of those who did not vaccinate were unaware of such need (40.5% of community and 15.6% of hospitalised patients). Just under half of the patient population received the IV during 2012–2013 period. Hospitalized patients are more likely to vaccinate regularly while a large proportion of community patients are unaware of the indication to vaccinate.