One in 300 young people have an undetected heart condition and their life can be cut short by Sudden Cardiac Arrest. SCA is a condition in which the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating. If this happens, blood stops flowing to the brain and other vital organs. SCA usually causes death if it’s not treated within minutes. SCA is not a heart attack and typically happens to those under the age of 35.
Young hearts that suddenly stop beating have an electrical problem. Sometimes the child is born with it, or it develops as the child grows. It often gets overlooked because comprehensive cardiovascular assessments are not a standard part of youth health care.
SCA is the #1 killer of student athletes and the leading cause of death on school campuses. SCA can be caused by a number of internal problems, such as structural abnormalities of the heart muscle, functional abnormalities of the heart’s electrical system, or inflammation of the heart muscle caused by an infection. There are also several external causes, such as a blunt blow to the chest, recreational drugs or the use of performance-enhancing supplements, diet pills and energy drinks.
There are warning signs of a potential heart condition. Groups such as “Parent Heart Watch” and “Screening America” are just two organizations which focus on empowering parents, educators, nurses, coaches and athletic trainers to detect these signs by educating them on the warning signs. Fainting or a seizure during or after physical activity, dizziness or light-headedness, chest pain, palpitations, racing or irregular hear beat, unusual shortness of breath or excessive fatigue can all be signs of SCA.
Sudden Cardiac Arrest can be prevented in young people. Simple things, such as knowing your family history, recognizing the warning signs and symptoms of a heart condition, prompt evaluation by an appropriate medical provider, learning CPR or a cardiac assessment at least every two years can all help prevent SCA.
On Thursday, December 5th, a Sudden Cardiac Death Prevention Screening will be held at the Adrian Middle and High School. Anyone ages 11 to 34 are eligible for this screening. Sponsored by Screening America in conjunction with the Adam L. Thompson foundation, this screening will offer a limited echo-cardiogram and a 12 lead ECG health history and blood pressure check. The results will be reviewed by a local board certified Pediatric Cardiologist. The cost for this life saving screening is $89, with a sibling discount available. Do your part to prevent SCA from happening to your child.
Register online at screeningamerica.com or by calling (605)274-2525.
