Research links hardcore fans to high-stress levels that contribute to violence among other risks. But staunch supporters of football experience such intense levels of stress while watching their teams play that they could be at risk of a heart attack, a new study suggests. The research by the University of Oxford published in the journal Stress and Health found that the levels of the hormone cortisol shot up to dangerous levels during matches. Cortisol, also known as the stress hormone, is secreted by the adrenal gland and helps control blood sugar levels. The study built on a previous one which showed an increase in heart attacks among fans on important match days.

Source: Standard Digital January 25, 2020 15:33 UTC