BBC News – 20th August 2014
An 18-year-old student has made a scientific breakthrough that could help save the lives of black athletes with undiagnosed heart problems.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy can lead to the heart suddenly stopping.
Henry Roth, from Hampshire, proved different tests for the condition were needed for black and white athletes – which do not currently take place.
A cardiologist who worked with Henry on the project said he was “astonished” by the teenager’s findings.
Henry was inspired to investigate the condition after the death of his uncle at the age of 21.
A research project emerged from a conversation with a cardiologist at St George’s Hospital in London during tests on Henry’s own heart.
They discussed how black athletes were at higher risk and the aspiring doctor resolved to find a better way of testing.
