Which statement best describes the progression of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy?

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is characterized by abnormal thickening of the heart muscle, particularly the interventricular septum. One of the most significant clinical implications of this condition is its association with sudden cardiac death, especially in young athletes. Due to the structural changes in the heart, individuals with HCM may experience atypical electrical activity that can lead to life-threatening arrhythmias during intense physical exertion.

This condition often presents asymptomatically or with minimal symptoms, making it difficult to diagnose without proper cardiac screening. Thus, it is not consistently linked with severe symptoms or exclusively linked to older adults. Additionally, while genetic factors play a substantial role in the development of HCM, it is not primarily caused by lifestyle choices, which also makes these options less accurate.

Therefore, recognizing HCM as the most common cause of sudden cardiac deaths in young athletes highlights the critical need for awareness, screening, and appropriate management in sport contexts.