Every now and then newspapers and especially social media carry reports of a cyclist succumbing to a heart attack or cardiac arrest mid-ride. The cyclists are usually men in their 40s or older. The latest happened three Sundays ago during an organised century ride.
These events generate a flurry of conversation about cycling being risky for older individuals. Despite all the research showing the health benefits of cycling for older adults.
I am not implying that precautions are not necessary. My Biker Chick is very very supportive of my cycling habit. With one proviso. I must pass a full health screening every year.
My annual medical examination includes the usual blood and urine tests, a pulmonary function test, a resting 12-lead ECG and treadmill stress test, a chest x-ray and a full abdomen and pelvic ultrasound examination. This year I added a full skin analysis since I spend a lot of time in the sun and had a squamous cell carcinoma a few years ago.
I’m good to go for another year!
Old Roots, New Routes 