Upcoming Screening Events:
Friday, June 7th – Mobile county athletes @ The Mitchell Center on the Campus of South Alabama
The purpose of a heart screening event is to attempt to identify any pre-existing heart conditions that could potentially increase the student’s risk of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) when participating in vigorous physical activity or athletic competition.
Screening events are not intended for athletes under the care of, or who have previously seen a cardiologist, or for “second opinions” about other heart conditions. Screening events are specifically looking for the most common causes of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) in young athletes. If one of these abnormalities is suspected, you will be referred to a cardiologist for further evaluation.
During the Heart for Athletes screening event, each athlete will take part in the following evaluation:
- Medical history – Each participant will fill out a medical history form.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) – This test is performed while the athlete is at rest. Electrodes (small patches) are placed on the surface of the skin. The test maps the rate, rhythm and functions of the heart, and prints a tracing for physician review and interpretation.
- Physician review – A board certified pediatric cardiologist will be at the screening event and will review screening findings as described above. The physician may recommend a limited echocardiogram.
- Echocardiogram (echo) – An echo is an ultrasound image created by using a Doppler wand on the surface of the chest. This test will be performed is recommended by physician at screening event.
- CPR/AED demonstration – Each student will participate in a hands-on CPR demonstration.
Times may vary, but a typical screening takes approximately 30 minutes.
Please note: Screening events are not intended for athletes under the care of, or who have previously seen a cardiologist, or for “second opinions” about other heart conditions. Heart screening events are specifically looking for the most common causes of SCA in young athletes.
Cost: The screenings will be provided FREE of CHARGE If you are able to donate to Heart for Athletes, 100% of your contribution will go toward our efforts to provide screenings to Baldwin and Mobile county teens. Click here to donate, or donate at the event. Your support is greatly appreciated!
Join us! If you would like to hear about upcoming heart screenings, would like to host a heart screening event at your high school, or would like to know more about CPR/AED (automated external defibrillator) classes in Baldwin & Mobile counties, please fill out our contact form. We’d love to hear from you!
