Study Suggests People With ARVD/C Genetic Mutation Should Avoid Exercise

People who are carrying a genetic mutation that causes a condition known as ARVD/C should avoid vigorous exercise, a new study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology reveals.

ARVD/C is a condition where the genetic mutation causes heart cells to beat irregularly, also known as arrhythmia, and could be potentially fatal as the blood is not able to flow properly throughout the body. Researchers led by Dr Cynthia James at Johns Hopkins observed 87 people suffering from ARVD/C and questioned them about their exercise habits.

The researchers found that vigorous exercise increased the risk of sudden death by as much as five times compared to those without the condition while reduced exercise was found to decrease the risk of carrying the gene.

"The results of this study reveal for the first time that the amount and intensity of exercise among people who carry a mutation increase the likelihood of developing ventricular arrhythmias - a very serious rhythm disturbance, and heart failure", Dr James said.

Source: Medindia