Sadly approximately 16 young people (under 35) die a week in the UK from Sudden Cardiac Death (SCD) due to an undiagnosed heart condition. Our screening service is available upon request to all persons ages 14-35 following the completion of a pre-screening health questionnaire. There is a misconception that only elite athletes should be screened, but anyone who participates in sport and even those who don't, can be affected.
Any person who has an abnormal ECG or echo will be followed-up and invited for a full cardiac consultation.
Our doctor led cardiac screening service is located at Spire Southampton Hospital or can be delivered at a location of your choice. We offer our service to the following:
- Sports club and associations
- Independent schools
- Business organisations
- Other social clubs.
The heart screening service aims to detect potential underlying cardiac conditions that may increase the risk of a triggered sport related cardiac event. We aim to increase awareness, provide peace of mind and allow prompt follow-up for your members with our group of consultant cardiologists, including an FA registered cardiologist.
We adhere to the European Society of Cardiology guidelines with the completion of a pre-screening questionnaire, 12 lead ECG and echocardiogram (cardiac ultrasound) where indicated, that will be reviewed by our group of consultant cardiolgists. All reports will be completed and returned within 5 working days.
The European Society of Cardiology (ESC 2005) and International Olympic Committee (IOC) both recommend cardiac screening for any young person taking part in competitive sport.
Our specialist consultants welcome the opportunity to build a relationship with your club, school or organisation with the provision of our professional, flexible and convenient service.
Over 35s screening
Our heart specialists in Southampton also provide a screening service for people over the age of 35 who may wish to or already participate in sports. As we get older we are at a higher risk of developing coronary artery disease. If coronary artery disease is left undetected and treated then this may lead to a heart attack. The American Heart Association recommends screening for risk factors for Masters (men over 40 and women over 50) undertaking vigorous exercise.
A pre-screening questionnaire is required to identify previous medical histories and symptoms. Provided the reponses to the questionnaire are satisfactory, the most effective diagnostic tool for the risk assessment of coronary artery disease is using stress echocardiography. No amount of screening however will guarantee an exclusion of all forms of heart disease.
To book a screening or for more information, please contact us on 023 8091 4444.