Athletic Training Practice Exam

Which condition is most commonly associated with a risk of cardiac arrest during physical activity?

1. Asthma

2. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

3. Diabetes

4. Osteoporosis

The correct answer is: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a condition characterized by the thickening of the heart muscle, particularly affecting the ventricles. This abnormality can lead to issues with the heart's ability to pump blood effectively. One significant risk associated with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the potential for life-threatening arrhythmias, which can trigger cardiac arrest, especially during vigorous physical activity. Young athletes with this condition often remain undiagnosed until they experience a cardiac event, which is why screening for this condition is crucial in sports settings. In contrast, while conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and osteoporosis may present their own health challenges during physical activity, they do not carry the same immediate risk of cardiac arrest as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Asthma can cause breathing issues, diabetes can lead to fluctuations in blood sugar levels, and osteoporosis increases the risk of fractures, but none are directly linked to lethal heart rhythms as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is. This makes understanding and recognizing hypertrophic cardiomyopathy vital for ensuring the safety of athletes engaged in competitive sports.