Unveiling Novel Insights into Myocardial Infarction Complications in Athletes: A Meta-Analysis and Statistical Synthesis of Recent Literature

Myocardial Infarction (MI) remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, with a wide spectrum of complications such as heart failure, arrhythmias, cardiac remodeling, and fibrosis significantly influencing patient outcomes. While MI complications are well-studied in the general population, athletes may experience distinct clinical challenges due to their intensive physical exertion and cardiovascular adaptations. This study aims to synthesize recent literature from 2020 to 2025 through a comprehensive meta-analysis and statistical synthesis to uncover novel insights into the mechanisms and management of MI complications specifically in athletes. A total of 15 peer-reviewed studies were selected based on strict inclusion criteria, focusing on molecular mechanisms, diagnostic innovations, therapeutic strategies, and systemic factors affecting post-MI recovery in athletes. Findings revealed critical roles of molecular mediators such as MALAT1 and miR-24, the emergence of AI-driven diagnostic tools, and new therapeutic interventions including calcitriol and natural compounds. Additionally, comorbid conditions like diabetes and COVID-19 were shown to worsen MI complications through distinct pathways in athletes. The integration of multi-omics and personalized medicine approaches presents a paradigm shift in understanding and managing MI sequelae in athletes. This research offers the first holistic synthesis of post-2020 literature, bridging molecular and clinical findings, and emphasizing the urgent need for collaborative, AI-supported, and translational research to improve MI outcomes in athletes.