Cardiac Arrest in Athletes

“Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is the most frequent medical cause of sudden death in athletes, and estimates vary widely based on the population” (Wasfy, Hutter, & Weiner, 2016, pg. 76). Most athletes are public figures, and are used as examples for other aspiring athletes. Their death affects the public in ways that are very unexpected and emotionally complex. Bearing that in mind, the cause for cardiac death in athletes could result from a number of causes ranging from congenital and genetic issues to acquired problems (Wasfy, Hutter, & Weiner, 2016). As a result of this increased recognition around cardiac health, especially from the perspective of athletes: there have been significant changes that are meant to screen and catch these signs and symptoms early on in an athlete's life (Wasfy, Hutter, & Weiner, 2016). Some of those prevention and screening methods include medical history and physical examinations, a 12 lead electrocardiogram )(often known as the ECG), 2-D echocardiogram, cardiac imaging, exercise stress test, genetic testing, and many other diagnostic tools (Wasfy, Hutter, & Weiner, 2016). 

In short cardiac arrests can occur anywhere and to anyone. It is shocking that athletes are susceptible to cardiac arrest; despite eating balanced meals, exercising, and following a lifestyle that is often associated with a positive approach to cardiac health. That is exactly why it's important for people to be prepared under any circumstance to provide assistance for someone that may show signs of cardiac arrest or even a myocardial infarct (often referred to as a heart attack). Providing CPR immediately in circumstances of cardiac arrest increases their chance of survival (American Heart Association, 2015). Not to mention, CPR certification courses take less than 90 minutes of your time with SMART Certification at your fingertips. You can complete this at your pace, and from the comfort of your home. This is less than half the time of an average football game! Getting CPR certified can help anyone save a life anywhere.  

References

American Heart Association. (2015, July 31). Heart attack and sudden cardiac arrest differences. www.heart.org. Retrieved February 10, 2022, from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/about-heart-attacks/heart-attack-or-sudden-cardiac-arrest-how-are-they-different 

Wasfy, M. M., Hutter, A. M., & Weiner, R. B. (2016). Sudden Cardiac Death in Athletes. Methodist DeBakey cardiovascular journal, 12(2), 76–80. https://doi.org/10.14797/mdcj-12-2-76