NewsHealthHealthA doctor says you need to be aware of the dangersNeil Shaw Assistant Editor (Money and Lifestyle)09:42, 03 Jun 2026A doctor has warned of the increased risk of heart attacks and strokes this month as fans watch this summer’s World Cup in the USA. With late-night kick-offs across America set to keep pubs open into the early hours, supporters are being warned they could be hit with a toxic cocktail of sleep deprivation, stress and booze as football fever grips the nation.‌England kick off their World Cup campaign against Croatia on Wednesday June 17 in a 9pm UK kick-off, while Scotland play Haiti on June 14 in a 2am kick-off, meaning millions of fans could be celebrating, commiserating and drinking long past midnight.‌Dr Chun Tang, a leading GP at Pall Mall Medical Group, has warned the emotional rollercoaster of high-stakes football can put huge strain on the body, especially when combined with alcohol and lack of sleep. “Big football matches trigger intense emotional responses,” said Dr Tang.‌“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."The medic says late nights and heavy drinking during tournaments can also wreak havoc on mental and physical health. “Sleep deprivation affects concentration, mood and immune function,” Dr Tang explained.‌“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.”He also warned stressed-out fans may turn to junk food and cigarettes during tense matches, piling even more pressure on the body.‌Dr Tang’s Top Tips for FansAlternate alcoholic drinks with waterAvoid energy drinks late at nightTry to maintain regular sleep where possibleTake breaks from screens and stressful match coverageSeek urgent medical help for chest pain or breathing issuesDr Tang added: “Tournament football creates a perfect storm, emotional stress, disrupted sleep, alcohol, and unhealthy eating habits.Article continues below“Supporters should enjoy the occasion but try to pace themselves, stay hydrated and know when to take a break.”Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌Blood pressureHeart diseaseJunk foodAlcoholBinge drinkingFitness And HealthMen's HealthGood HealthHealthy LifestyleMental healthHealthy eatingCardiac HealthHealthy LifeHealth and LeisureBody HealthWomen's healthHealthHealthy LivingFootball fansEngland football teamScotland football teamFIFA World Cup