[The Role of the Electrocardiogram (ECG) In the Screening and Prevention of Sudden Cardiac Death in Sports].

Abstract

The Role of the Electrocardiogram (ECG) In the Screening and Prevention of Sudden Cardiac Death in Sports Abstract: Athletes carry a higher risk for sports-related sudden cardiac death compared to the general population. The majority of these athletes suffer from an undiagnosed heart disease. Since physical activity is an essential trigger for sudden cardiac death in individuals with undiagnosed, usually hereditary, heart disease, sports can lead to sudden cardiac death in these athletes. Different heart diseases lead to sudden cardiac death at different ages during sports. The electrocardiogram (ECG) is an important screening tool to identify individuals of all ages with heart disease that are associated with sports-related sudden cardiac death. These individuals can then be treated and lives can be saved.