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July 10, 2026Journal of Clinical MedicineOpen Access

High-intensity training in male athletes linked to increased CAC and up to ~71% CAD prevalence.

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Why the study?

Does high-intensity training affect the risk and characteristics of coronary artery disease in male athletes?

Population

Male athletes, particularly middle-aged sportsmen and endurance athletes engaging in high-intensity training

Design

Review

Key result

High-intensity training in male athletes is associated with increased coronary artery calcification, with CAD prevalence in middle-aged sportsmen varying from 13.7% to 71%.

Authors

ZKZofia KampkaMWMaciej Wybraniec

Discussion

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Overview

High-intensity endurance training links to higher yet stable CAC in athletes; leaves open optimal screening and risk stratification.

Key Points

  • The aim is to explore the prevalence and factors contributing to coronary artery disease in male athletes.
  • Reviewed literature on coronary artery disease prevalence in athletes, ranging from 13.7% to 71%.
  • Discussed diagnostic methods such as medical history evaluation, electrocardiograms, and imaging tests.
  • Analyzed the impact of high-intensity training on coronary artery calcification and cardiovascular health.
  • Coronary artery disease is prevalent in middle-aged male athletes, posing risks of sudden cardiac death after age 30.
  • High-intensity training correlates with increased coronary artery calcification due to various physiological factors.
  • Most athletes show benign calcified atherosclerotic plaques and enhanced coronary vasodilatory capacity, reducing risk.

Structured PICO

Does high-intensity training affect the risk and characteristics of coronary artery disease in male athletes?

P
Population
Male athletes, particularly middle-aged sportsmen and endurance athletes engaging in high-intensity training
E
Exposure
High-intensity training / endurance sports
O
Outcome
Coronary artery disease (CAD) prevalence, coronary artery calcification (CAC), and sudden cardiac death (SCD)

While endurance athletes have increased coronary artery calcification, the plaques are mostly benign and athletes benefit from improved coronary vasodilatory capacity.

Cite This Study

Kampka et al. (2026) conducted a review in Coronary artery disease. High-intensity training was evaluated. High-intensity training in male athletes is associated with increased coronary artery calcification, with CAD prevalence in middle-aged sportsmen varying from 13.7% to 71%.

synapsesocial.com/papers/6a508da76eeac72a437a114fhttps://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15145329
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