As hunters die every year from strenuous exercise and bursts of activity that hunting can bring, the University of Michigan Cardiovascular Center will be hosting an event this month to discuss the risks and preventive measures as the hunting season approaches.

According to Dr. Eric Good, a University of Michigan cardiologist, the combination of sitting for long periods and sudden rushes of adrenaline when prey is spotted can result in heart attacks and sudden cardiac arrests, some of which can be deadly.

To help hunters minimize the risk, the Heart of the Hunter Health Fair will have doctors and nurses on hand to advise participants on safe outdoor practices.

“Every hunter should treat the hunting season as if they were training for a major sporting event like a run or a tournament because … the excitement and physical exertion can be intense,” says Good.

He adds, “Even a 30-minute fast walk several times a week can help – anything that gets your heart pumping at 60 to 80 percent of your maximum heart rate, which is calculated by subtracting your age from 220.”

He also suggests knowing the principles of CPR and first aid can save lives.

Those who would like to boost their heart health may turn to nutritional supplements with vitamin B or omega-3 fatty acids.