Devoted football fans experience such intense physical stress while watching their team that they may be putting themselves at risk of a heart attack, according to a study by the University of Oxford.
Researchers analysed saliva samples from Brazilian fans during their historic 7-1 loss to Germany in the 2014 World Cup semi-final. They found that levels of the stress hormone cortisol surged during the match, which can increase blood pressure and strain on the heart.
The study, published by the Centre for the Study of Social Cohesion, found no difference in stress levels between men and women, despite assumptions that men are more emotionally bonded to their teams. Dr Martha Newson, the lead researcher, said: 'Fans who are strongly fused with their team experience the greatest physiological stress response. Casual supporters also experience stress, but not so extremely.'
High cortisol levels can also induce feelings of impending doom or danger. The research notes that previous studies have shown an increase in heart attacks among fans on important match days. However, fans in the study used coping strategies such as humour and hugging to reduce stress, bringing levels down to normal by the final whistle.
Dr Newson suggested that stadiums could dim the lights and play calming music after high-stakes matches, and that clubs might offer heart screenings to highly committed fans most at risk.
