Brookhaven Hospital: Mental Health Treatment for Behavioral Health Problems, Chemical Dependency, Eating Disorders, Brain Injuries, and Renewal Christian Treatment and Recovery

Thursday, January 31, 2008 9:26 AM
posted by Rolf B. Gainer, Ph.D.

Super Risks on Super Bowl Sunday

Couch potatoes beware, Super Bowl Sunday may put you at risk for cardiovascular events. A German study conducted during the FIFA World Cup in 2006 and published in the New England Journal of Medicine (V 358:475-483, January 31, 2008, Number 5) found a relationship between emotional stress and the incidence of cardiovascular events.4279 patients with cardiovascular events occurring during the World Cup matches were assessed. The incidence rate during game days was 2.66 that during the control periods. The rate for men was 3.26 that of the control period and 1.82 for women. For individuals with known coronary heart disease the rate soared to 47.0% as compared to 29.1% during the control period. The highest incidence was observed during the first two hours at the beginning of each match.

The study revealed that watching a stressful match doubled the risk of a cardiovascular event and suggested that individuals with known coronary heart disease take measures to reduce stress associated with watching the match. While we normally don't equate the Super Bowl with a heart attack, this study identifies that there is a clear risk which is further increased for individuals with a history of heart disease. Our culture puts a lot of attention of the Super Bowl and the event has become an institution marked by parties, overindulgence in food and drink and stress about who will win or lose. So, sports fans be careful on Sunday. Even those who watch from the couch are at risk.

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Rolf B. Gainer, Ph.D., Diplomate ABDA, is the Chief Executive Office at Brookhaven Hospital and the Vice President of Rehabilitation Institutes of America. Dr. Gainer has been involved in the design and operation of treatment programs since 1977.

Stephen Harnish, MD is the Medical Director of Brookhaven Hospital. Dr. Harnish is a member of the American Psychiatric Association and is well known in Oklahoma for his informative radio and television appearances.

Aric Thorpe, MHR, is Brookhaven Hospital's Pastoral Liaison Representative. He conducts the quarterly Minister's Lifeline series and provides mental health information to pastors and clergy.

Sarah McGee serves as the Community Education Provider for Brookhaven Hospital. She provides information on mental health and drug and alcohol treatment to healthcare professionals in Oklahoma and surrounding states.

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