Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) occurs in approximately 1 in 500 people but often goes undiagnosed in the community. Unfortunately, HCM can tragically present in the playing field.
Peds Happy Hearts provides cardiac screenings for students (ages 13 to 26), including middle school, high school, and college athletes participating in recreational sports. Pre-participation sports physicals would enable athletes to participate in strenuous sporting activities with peace of mind, ensuring a healthy heart.
At Peds Happy Hearts, we are committed to providing a comprehensive athletic screening program that includes:
- Comprehensive cardiac examination by a board-certified pediatric cardiologist
- EKG (also for detection of long QT syndrome, another potential cause of sudden death)
- Echocardiogram
- Cardiac monitoring, if required
Why is it best to have my child screened during his or her teen years?
The risk of developing HCM peaks in the teen years. The risks of having a cardiac event increase with physical activity, such as those associated with competitive sports and exertional activities.
Who should get tested?
Any child between the ages of 13 and 26 who is involved in a high-exertion activity such as sports, running, swimming, cheerleading, or marching band.
The following factors increase the risk of SCA:
- Family history of known heart abnormalities or sudden death before age 50
- Specific family history of Long QT Syndrome, Brugada Syndrome, Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, or Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Dysplasia (ARVD)
- Family members with unexplained fainting, seizures, drowning or near drowning or car accidents
- Known structural heart abnormality, repaired or unrepaired.
- Use of drugs, such as cocaine, inhalants, “recreational” drugs or excessive energy drinks
