Cardiovascular, biochemical, and functional characteristics of male and female national basketball athletes: Interpreting the sports medical exam based on age group

Objective. The aim of this study is to examine differences in cardiovascular, biochemical, and functional parameters obtained during preparticipation screening among elite male and female basketball players across various age categories competing for the national team. Methods. A total of 204 basketball players (122 male and 82 female) completed a sports medical exam that included blood pressure measurement, electrocardiogram, body composition analysis, biochemical analyses, echocardiogram, and a cardiopulmonary stress test. Age categories included under-16 (U16), U18, U20, senior (both genders), and U19 (male players only). Results. None of the athletes had any significant findings that would require suspension from play. Significant gender differences are observed across most parameters. The most notable findings concern maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) and cardiac adaptation across age categories, when the parameters are indexed to body size and muscle mass. VO2MAX levels develop early in young players, and the values are not greater in older player groups. Physiological cardiac adaptations are shown in all age groups, starting at U16, and are consistent with physiological adaptation to basketball, ranging from normal geometry to eccentric left ventricular hypertrophy. Left chamber volumes are the largest in the senior player group. Conclusion. The results aim to provide additional insight into interpreting the findings of sports medical examination of basketball players. According to our results, cardiac adaptation to basketball and aerobic capacity develop early in young players. Further longitudinal follow-up studies with larger participant numbers are needed to support these findings.