Current Projects
Cape Athletes Heart Study
‘The Cape Athletes Heart Study evaluates for the presence of left atrial fibrosis i.e. a type of scar tissue in the hearts of veteran endurance athletes.
These changes have been associated with an increases risk of atrial fibrillation, an arrhythmia more frequently seen in aged endurance athletes.
The red colour in the left atrium of this endurance athlete signifies extensive, scattered fibrosis.’
2022 Comrades Ultramarathon
We studied 40 ultra-athletes with advanced cardiac ultrasound before and after ‘the ultimate human race’ – the 2022 Comrades Ultramarathon.
Dr Smedema recently visited the SA icewater swimming trials at Matroosberg as part of scheduled research which will evaluate the cardiovascular effects of this unique discipline
Dr Smedema recently met with representatives of CardiacInsight, an innovative company based in Seattle which develops and manufactures ECG equipment used for the screening of athletes. A research agreement was finalized.
Dr Smedema recently visited prof Jon Drezner at the Sports Cardiology program of Washington University in Seattle. Prof Drezner runs a successful screening program which aims to reduce sudden cardiac death in young athletes. Research collaboration was discussed.
