Unexplained sudden death in the young is frequently recorded as sue to natural causes but experts now believe that many of these deaths can be attributed to Sudden Death Syndrome from inherited forms of heart muscle disorders and irregular heart beats. 

It is often difficult to consider that someone who is apparently young and fit may be at risk but the tragic deaths of such sports stars as Cormac McAnallen (Tyrone GAA) and John McCall (Irish U19 rugby) shocked everyone.  Sporting youngsters stress their hearts the most, but if they have an underlying cardiac abnormality they are more likely to be at risk.  Sport in itself does not lead to cardiac arrest but it can act as a trigger for a young person to die suddenly by exacerbating the undetected condition. 

Cardiac screening can eliminate many of these deaths and to this aim Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY) has set up a special clinic in Northern Ireland where they will screen any young and physically active individual between the ages of 14 - 35 with a couple of very simple tests which can diagnose most underlying cardiac pathologies. 

CRY suggest screening is requested via a GP if there has been any young sudden deaths in the family or if the young person is suffering from exercise related chest pain, breathlessness, palpitations, dizziness or fainting.  The tests are painless and  non-intrusive and cost about £35. 

The screening service is held at the UU Clinic, Jordan town .  Ring 01737 363 222, cryni@c-r-y.org.uk www.c-r-y.org.uk/ni.htm