Cardiovascular Disease in Tactical Athletes: A Focused Review on First Responders

Purpose of Review: To provide the reader with an understanding of sudden cardiac death (SCD), cardiovascular risk factors, and unique occupational stressors among tactical athletes, herein referring specifically to first responders, including firefighters, law enforcement officers, and emergency medical services (EMS) personnel. Recent Findings: Tactical athletes experience SCD at increasing rates with age with the highest risks observed during strenuous emergency responses. Cardiovascular risk factors are often underdiagnosed and inadequately managed, compounded by unique occupational exposures that may contribute to SCD risk. Pre-employment and periodic medical and fitness screening requirements vary widely across tactical athlete communities and employers/jurisdictions. Summary: Additional research is required to better elucidate SCD rates and risk mitigation strategies among this population to optimize first responder health and ensure public safety. Collaboration and advocacy are essential to establish minimum medical and fitness screening requirements and to implement these standards broadly across all tactical athlete communities.