What is the most common cause of death in marathon runners?

The most common cause of death in marathon runners is coronary artery disease. This condition is prevalent in the general population and can become particularly concerning during endurance events like marathons, where runners who may have underlying heart conditions could face serious risks. Even though marathon training promotes cardiovascular health, some individuals may have undiagnosed coronary artery disease that can manifest during intense physical exertion.

Additionally, the stress of running long distances can provoke fatal arrhythmias or cardiac events in these individuals whose coronary arteries are narrowed or obstructed. While cardiac arrest and cardiac arrhythmia are important considerations, particularly in an exercise context, their prevalence as direct causes of death in the context of marathon running tends to be lower than that of pre-existing coronary artery disease. Musculoskeletal injuries, while common in marathon runners, are typically not life-threatening and thus not considered common causes of death in this scenario.

Understanding the implications of coronary artery disease in physically active individuals underscores the importance of pre-participation cardiovascular screening, particularly for those engaging in strenuous endurance events.