The causes of exercise-related sudden death are discussed. Multiple structural cardiovascular diseases are the primary cause of death in athletes under 30; severe coronary artery disease is the culprit in deaths of those over 30. These diseases and the mechanisms of sudden death, as well as preventive measures, are detailed. (JL)

Amenorrhea and oligomenorrhea are often related to heavy exercise, but these conditions can signal a serious pathologic condition. Tests to pinpoint causes of menstrual dysfunctions are listed, and treatments to establish a proper hormone balance are described. (MT)

To identify factors which cause shin soreness in athletes, 25 injured exercisers and a control group of 25 uninjured exercisers were studied. Methodology and results are presented and analyzed. Differences in calcium intake between the two groups is cited as a key factor in causing shin soreness. (JL)

The effects of stretching techniques on arterial blood pressure (ABP) were studied in three groups of 20 men each. Each group performed one of three proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) techniques. Results are presented. The study indicates that the benefits of stretching may outweigh the risk of elevated ABP. (JL)

Women have increased their participation in weightlifting competitions. Still, little is known about the physiological effects of the sport on women. At a recent symposium, researchers in this field discussed their work. Their findings are summarized in this article. (JL)

A primary goal of the cardiovascular evaluation of exercisers is to identify conditions that carry the risk of exercise-related sudden death. These conditions, which are found in a careful evaluation of the patient, are identifed and described in detail. (Author/JL)

The article focuses on the merits of a comprehensive, medically-oriented health maintenance/risk assessment program, and suggests that such conditions as heart disease, cancer, and arteriosclerosis can be prevented or postponed through proper nutrition, weight control, exercise, smoking cessation, and stress management. (Author/CB)

Discusses contraindications to athletic participation, examining the cardiac, respiratory, and central nervous system conditions that warrant activity disqualification. Provides guidelines about when it is safe for individuals to participate, and discusses the physician's responsibility. (SM)

Discusses the many factors that can cause a child to be misdiagnosed with hypertension, as well as the kinds of activities that are appropriate for a child who has hypertension. (JD)

Athletes with heart symptoms require, in addition to the regular evaluations everyone receives, testing during exercise. History taking should be carefully conducted to properly determine adverse heart conditions. Recommendations are provided for proper diagnosis and handling of athletes with heart symptoms. (GLR)

Exercise-induced asthma (EIA) affects 12-15% of the population. This comprehensive guide suggests that nearly all individuals with EIA can be active, highlighting both pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic management of asthma and stressing the importance of rigorous patient education in controlling underlying asthma and EIA. (SM)