Systematic Transthoracic Echocardiographic Screening in Amateur Football Referees

Completed

• Conditions: Cardiac Sreening; Soccer Referees

• Registration Number: NCT06906484
• Lead Sponsor: University Hospital, Caen

Brief Summary

This retrospective study aims to evaluate the prevalence of cardiac abnormalities detected by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) in amateur football referees as part of a systematic cardiovascular screening program.

Detailed Description

cardiovasculaire screening of athletes and sports officials is essential for preventing sudden cardiac death during physical activity. In 2019, the French Football Federation (FFF) introduced mandatory transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) for amateur referees over 18 years old, to improve early detection of cardiovascular abnormalities.

This retrospective observational study investigates the diagnostic value of systematic TTE in detecting structural or functional cardiac anomalies among adult amateur referees affiliated with the Normandy Football League.

The primary objective is to estimate the prevalence of cardiac abnormalities diagnosed by TTE in this population. The secondary objectives include identifying the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs), and describing the abnormalities found during the medical evaluation

Study Timeline

• Study Start: 2023-01-01
• Primary Completion: 2024-01-01
• Study Completion: 2025-01-01
• Status Verified: 2025-03
• Study First Submitted: 2025-03-21
• Study First Submitted QC: 2025-03-31
• Last Update Submitted: 2025-03-31
• Study First Posted: 2025-04-02
• Last Update Posted: 2025-04-02

Recruitment & Eligibility

• Status: COMPLETED
• Sex: All
• Target Recruitment: 250

Inclusion Criteria

Male amateur football referees, aged ≥18 Affiliated with the Normandy Football League Completed a baseline TTE No known pre-existing cardiac disease Complete medical records available

Exclusion Criteria

Referees under 18 or in training status History of cardiovascular disease Incomplete medical file

Study & Design

• Study Type: OBSERVATIONAL
• Study Design: Not specified

Primary Outcome Measures

Name	Time	Method
Prevalence of structural or functional abnormalities detected by TTE	At the baseline	The primary outcome is the proportion of participants presenting with significant structural or functional cardiac abnormalities detected by resting transthoracic echocardiography performed as part of the mandatory cardiovascular screening for amateur football referees.

Trial Locations

Locations (1)

CHU de CAEN; 🇫🇷 Caen, Normandie, France