Burnt fans of a football team? It can put you at risk

This is undoubtedly one of the games that Brazil fans will never forget - the match against Germany in the 2014 World Cup where they experienced a jarring 7-1 loss. Researchers who looked at what the fans were up to in those days found that their stress levels were really life-threatening

Burnt fans of a football team? It can put you at risk

Video: This is what Brazil fans looked like during the defeat against Germany in the 2014 World Cup

Burnt football fans experience such high levels of physical stress while watching their team that they could put themselves at risk of heart attack, according to a study by the prestigious Oxford University.

The study that used saliva from some Brazil fans during their historic loss to Germany in the 2014 World Cup found that cortisol (stress hormone) levels rose significantly during the home defeat 7-1 in the semifinals. This increase can be dangerous and increase the blood pressure and strain on the heart. The researchers found no difference in stress levels between men and women during the game, despite preconceptions that men are more connected to their football teams.

Can stress really cause illness?

Dr Martha Newson, one of the study's editors, told the BBC website that "fans who felt that they were one with their team experienced the greatest physiological stress response while watching the game. Fans who temporarily encourage a group also experience pressure, but not so extreme. "

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High levels of prolonged cortisol can constrict blood vessels, raise blood pressure and damage already weakened heart. Cortisol levels that rise can also give people a sense of impending doom, that their lives are in danger or that they are under attack. Previous research has shown an increase in heart attacks among fans during important playing days.

Brazilian fan after defeat to Germany in the 2014 World Cup (Photo: AP)

Brazil team fan (Photo: AP)

In their study, Oxford University researchers tracked cortisol levels of 40 fans before, during and after three World Cup games. The highest stress levels were recorded in the semifinals. "It was a thrilling game - so many people broke down from crying," Dr. Newson said. But fans used coping strategies like humor and hugs to reduce their stress, and lowered it before the final whistle.

Dr. Newson suggested that stadiums should dim the lights and play soothing music after games. She said soccer clubs could also play a role in keeping fans healthy. Experience increased pressure during the game. "