2026-06-04 11:06:11

A doctor has warned football fans are at increased risk of heart attacks and strokes during the World Cup this summer.

Starting on June 11, the global tournament will get underway in the US with late games for fans in the UK, and supporters have been warned about the impacts of sleep deprivation, stress and alcohol.

England will start their campaign with a 9pm kick-off against Croatia on June 17, while Scotland get underway on June 14 at 2am against Haiti.

Dr Chun Tang, a GP at Pall Mall Medical Group, told the Mirror: “Big football matches trigger intense emotional responses. Your heart rate rises; blood pressure can spike and stress hormones surge through the body.

“For some supporters, particularly those with underlying conditions, that can increase the risk of chest pain, heart palpitations and even cardiac events.

“Of course, if you have any concerns in relation to heart health you should seek medical advice straight away.”

Dr. Tang also pointed to how “sleep deprivation affects concentration, mood and immune function”.

He added: “After several late nights in a row, people can experience headaches, irritability, anxiety, and exhaustion.

“Add excessive alcohol into the mix and you increase the risk of dehydration, poor-quality sleep, and dangerous binge-drinking behaviour.”

There is also a danger of stressed fans embracing cigarettes and junk food during particularly tense games.

Dr. Tang described tournament football like the World Cup as a “perfect storm” of emotional highs and lows, “disrupted sleep”, booze and unhealthy eating.

He has advised fans to avoid late night energy drinks, to try and stick to a regular sleeping pattern as much as possible, to take screen breaks, and to make sure they seek medical help for any breathing issues or chest pain.

He said: “Supporters should enjoy the occasion but try to pace themselves, stay hydrated and know when to take a break.”

Visit Bang Bizarre (main website)