Thu Jan 09 17:33:30 UTC 2025: ## Pre-participation Screening Crucial to Reduce Sudden Cardiac Death in Athletes: Study

**Chennai, January 10, 2025** – Sudden cardiac death (SCD) in athletes, while rare, remains a significant concern, highlighting the need for robust pre-participation screening, according to a recent study. The study, referencing International Olympic Committee (IOC) recommendations, emphasizes that screening and health evaluations are the only effective ways to reduce the incidence of cardiovascular accidents in athletes.

The research reveals that pre-participation medical evaluations (PPME) significantly decrease SCD rates. One study showed a 90% drop in SCD incidence in young athletes following the implementation of PPME, from 3.6 to 0.4 per 100,000 person-years. The leading cause of SCD in younger athletes was found to be congenital or acquired cardiac malformations, while undiagnosed coronary artery disease was more prevalent in middle-aged athletes.

PPME typically includes a personal and family history review, physical examination, and a 12-lead resting electrocardiogram (ECG). Further testing, such as echocardiograms or stress tests, may be recommended based on initial findings. While comprehensive PPME may be impractical for large recreational events, organizers can mitigate risk by including targeted questions on registration forms to identify at-risk individuals and provide access to medical personnel and automated external defibrillators (AEDs).

Dr. Lakshmi Sundar, President of the Indian Society of Lifestyle and a certified race emergency medicine physician, stressed the importance of timely intervention. “For every minute delay in resuscitation after cardiac arrest, there’s a 7% decreased chance of survival,” she noted. She also advises athletes, both competitive and recreational, to undergo periodic health evaluations including a metabolic panel and ECG interpreted by a physician familiar with athletic cardiac adaptations. While echocardiograms and cardiac MRIs are not recommended as primary prevention tools, athletes should be encouraged to provide accurate medical information.

Dr. Sundar concludes that while SCD is a serious concern, the benefits of exercise far outweigh the risks. “Through thoughtful preparation, supportive communities, and responsive care systems, we can create environments where everyone can pursue their athletic aspirations safely,” she stated. The onus, she emphasizes, lies not only on organizers but also on athletes themselves to prioritize their health and safety.

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