Larissa Borges, a 33-year-old fitness influencer hailing from Brazil, tragically passed away on Monday due to a dual cardiac arrest. Her untimely demise occurred following a week-long hospitalization, as reported by the New York Post. Her family confirmed the sorrowful news of her departure through a message shared on her Instagram account, expressing the immense pain of losing someone so young, kind, and vibrant. The ache in their hearts is immeasurable, and they are grappling with an indescribable sense of longing.
The influencer had been admitted to the hospital on August 20 after encountering a cardiac collapse while on a journey to Gramado, as detailed by local media reports. Regrettably, she lost consciousness during the incident.
Causes of cardiac arrest in young people
Cardiac arrest in young people is a distressing phenomenon with potentially fatal consequences. While less common than in older individuals, it can be attributed to several factors:
Inherited Conditions: Genetic predisposition to conditions like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, long QT syndrome, and arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia can disrupt the heart's electrical system, leading to sudden cardiac arrest.
Congenital Abnormalities: Structural heart defects present at birth, such as anomalous coronary arteries or valve abnormalities, can trigger cardiac arrest, often during physical exertion.
Substance Abuse: Illicit drugs, excessive alcohol consumption, and even certain prescription medications can provoke abnormal heart rhythms, increasing the risk of cardiac arrest among young people.
Athletic Activities: Intense physical exertion, particularly in those with undiagnosed heart conditions, can precipitate fatal arrhythmias, as seen in cases of commotio cordis, where a blow to the chest disrupts the heart's rhythm.
Underlying Medical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, obesity, and certain autoimmune disorders can strain the cardiovascular system, raising the likelihood of sudden cardiac events among young individuals.
