A groundbreaking study led by Dr. Jonathan Kim, an associate professor at the Emory School of Medicine, reveals a dramatic decrease in fatalities caused by cardiac arrests during marathons despite an increase in participants across the U.S. This research, published in JAMA, builds on Kim's earlier 2012 study, which was the first to investigate sudden cardiac events in long-distance running. The findings indicate that while the frequency of cardiac arrests remains consistent, survival rates have significantly improved, with fewer runners succumbing to these incidents than in the past.

Key Insights from the Research

In a remarkable era marked by growing participation in marathons—more than 29 million people completed races between 2010 and 2023—Dr. Kim’s team faced challenges collecting data due to the absence of a centralized registry for race-related cardiac events. Through extensive public internet searches and direct communication with race directors, they constructed detailed profiles of numerous cases. Analyzing this expansive database, Kim discovered that although the incidence of cardiac arrests remained stable at approximately .60 per 100,000 participants, the mortality rate plummeted by half, from .39 per 100,000 to .19 per 100,000. Men were more frequently affected than women, and marathons saw higher occurrences compared to half-marathons.

Kim attributes the improved survival rates to heightened awareness within the sport regarding cardiac risks and the importance of emergency preparedness. Interviews with survivors revealed that immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and access to automated external defibrillators (AEDs) played pivotal roles in saving lives. This enhanced survival rate aligns with trends observed in other public spaces equipped with defibrillators, such as airports and casinos.

From a journalist's perspective, this study underscores the critical role of proactive measures in reducing preventable tragedies. By promoting CPR training among participants and strategically placing AEDs along race routes, organizers can ensure safer events. Furthermore, identifying individuals with underlying cardiovascular risks before races could lead to better primary preventive care. This research not only highlights the progress made but also points toward future areas of investigation, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and innovation in safeguarding runners' health.