[jome]

Don't know about strokes, but I do know several divers that get clear arrythmias basically every time they try max apnea, but nothing abnormal has been found in their heart function. Other than that perfectly healty, young, active and with healthy life styles.

But I think the bp issue is something especially elderly divers should be aware of. Almost pure speculation but I do believe apnea also to have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system provided it isn't taken too far (too fast). Then again, at least in Finland there are several heart-related deaths in endurance events every year. So far 0 in apnea events. Of course the numbers of participants are hardly comparable.