Game Over
Unpacking a case of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy in a young athlete, alongside key updates on World Hypertension Day 2026. Explore our special call for applications to join our growing team and mission
Dear Cardiology Enthusiasts,
Welcome to the month of May!
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is one of the leading causes of sudden cardiac death in young athletes. It is often hidden in plain sight, masked by high levels of physical activity. What looks like ‘athlete fatigue’ can often be the first sign of a life threatening structural anomaly.
Our case story for the month exposes us to how hypertrophic cardiomyopathy typically presents, highlighting the importance of timely and appropriate intervention in reducing mortality.
CASE STORY
A 21 year old male professional footballer collapsed during training after complaining of dizziness and palpitations. He had been in his usual state of health prior to presentation. Witnesses reported a brief loss of consciousness lasting less than one minute with spontaneous recovery.
On further questioning, he admitted to experiencing intermittent exertional chest discomfort, palpitations, and near-syncope over the past 6 months. These episodes were often brief and self-resolving and he had not sought medical attention, attributing them to fatigue from training.
There was no history of hypertension, diabetes mellitus or substance use. However, his older brother had died suddenly at the age of 25 while playing sports.
On examination, he was alert but anxious; pulse rate was 96 bpm; blood pressure was 110/70mmHg; auscultation of precordium revealed a harsh systolic murmur best heard at left sternal border which increases with Valsalva maneuver.
On investigation, ECG showed left ventricular hypertrophy; echocardiogram showed asymmetric septal hypertrophy with preserved ejection fraction and evidence of left ventricular outflow tract obstruction.
A diagnosis of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy was made.
Management
He was started on beta blockers to slow his heart rate and reduce outflow obstruction.
He was counselled on lifestyle modification and avoidance of strenuous exertion.
Family screening was initiated.
Currently, he remains stable, adhering to his management plan.
Key Takeaways
Sudden collapse in a young athlete is a strong pointer to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
Family history of sudden cardiac death is a critical clue
The murmur of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy increases with Valsalva’s maneuver, unlike most other murmurs.
Early discovery can be lifesaving.
UPCOMING EVENTS:
May 17 is World Hypertension Day!
Hypertension is one of the most common and most overlooked cardiovascular risk factors in our environment. Often asymptomatic, it quietly leads to complications such as heart failure, chronic kidney disease, and stroke, hence its dub as a “silent killer.”
In Nigeria, where many individuals are either undiagnosed or poorly controlled, World Hypertension Day serves as a reminder of the role we all have to play in changing the narrative. This year’s World Hypertension Day carries the theme “Controlling Hypertension Together!” a reminder that tackling high blood pressure requires collective action. Simple actions like routine blood pressure checks, patient education, and lifestyle counselling can make a significant difference.
As members of the Cardiology Interest Group Nigeria, this is an opportunity to expand our impact beyond the clinic. We are going to be running a 7-day structured online campaign between 10th-17th May in alignment with this year’s theme. It promises to be fun and informative with posts geared towards increasing awareness, correcting misconceptions, promoting early detection, and blood pressure monitoring/control. Join in on all the fun across all our social media platforms with the hashtag: #KnowYourNumbersNG.
CIGN Monthly General Meeting – 30th May, 2026
The next CIGN Monthly General Meeting is scheduled for 30th May 2026. A major highlight of our meetings is the academic presentation led by one of our journal clubs, which features educative literature reviews on important cardiology concepts, emerging topics, or current guideline updates in cardiovascular medicine. For enthusiasts who are not yet members, joining CIGN offers access to these kinds of enriching meetings and academic development.
From the last meeting held in April
At the previous meeting on 25th April 2026, the Ayodele O. Falase Journal Club presented a literature review on The Role of Statins in Reducing the Risk of Ischaemic Stroke.
The presentation explored stroke as a major cause of mortality and long-term disability worldwide, with modifiable risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, smoking, and dyslipidaemia. The role of elevated LDL cholesterol in atherosclerosis was emphasised as a key mechanism underlying ischaemic stroke.
The presentation also reviewed how statins reduce cardiovascular risk through LDL cholesterol reduction, plaque stabilisation, anti-inflammatory effects, and improved endothelial function. Evidence from landmark studies demonstrating reductions in recurrent stroke and other vascular events was also discussed.
The session was both informative and thought-provoking. We commend the Ayodele O. Falase Journal Club for an excellent presentation and look forward to another enriching session at the upcoming May meeting.
The 5th Port Harcourt Cardiovascular Conference 2026 is Just around the Corner.
We are excited to announce the upcoming Port Harcourt Cardiovascular conference themed ‘Evolution in Cardiovascular Medicine.’ It promises to be a gathering of medical professionals, researchers, and healthcare innovators dedicated to the latest advancements in heart health and clinical practice.
Date: 29th and 30th May, 2026
Time: 8:00 am daily
Venue: Diamond/Gold Hall Autograph, 30/33 Sani Abacha Road, GRA Phase3, Port Harcourt
EXCITING OPPORTUNITY:
Applications are now open for new members to join the Cardiology Interest Group Nigeria (CIGN). As you know, we are a growing community of students and young professionals united by a shared interest in cardiovascular medicine, academic excellence, leadership, and impact.
For anyone passionate about medicine and cardiology, this is an opportunity to be part of a network that supports learning, collaboration, and professional growth. Do you have interests in clinical practice, research, advocacy, or simply exploring cardiology further? CIGN provides a platform to develop and connect.
Members benefit from opportunities in research, academic activities, leadership development, mentorship, projects, events, and collaborations with like-minded peers and professionals across the country. It is also an excellent way to build experience, strengthen your CV, and prepare for future career pathways.
You do not need to have all the answers or extensive cardiology knowledge before joining, you only need to bring your curiosity, commitment, teamwork, and willingness to learn.
Registration is free and open to medical students and medical officers only.
Application Deadline: 30th May, 2026
Apply here: CIGNrecruitmentform
Please note that slots are limited, so interested applicants are encouraged to apply early and become part of a community committed to advancing cardiovascular health in Nigeria and beyond!
CARDIO FUN & FACTS:
Care to have a little fun? Welcome to our fun and facts corner where we’ll be dispelling some myths and dropping a few nuggets.
Myth: Only obese people get heart disease.
Fact: Obesity is a strong risk factor for most heart diseases but individuals who are not obese can still have heart diseases in the presence of other risk factors.
Myth: If I feel fine, my blood pressure is okay.
Fact: Many people with alarmingly high readings have no symptoms. Hence, the moniker, ‘silent killer.’
Did you know?
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the leading cause of sudden death in young athletes with death usually being the first presenting symptom.
Laughter can improve blood flow by up to 20%, while stress can constrict vessels.
The heart can continue to beat even when moved from the body (briefly) if it still has enough oxygen because it has its own electrical conduction system.
Follow us on our social media platforms here .
Chidera Nweke, Uchenna Ukaegbu & Favour Obukofe,
For The Newsletter Team,
CIGN