Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association: Athletic Preparticipation Screening Guidelines

Athletic Preparticipation Screening Guidelines
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Lisa Salberg on 02/26/2009 10:39:00


The American Heart Association has published guidelines for pre participation
sports physicials.  The HCMA encourages each State to use these guidelines when
updating there requirements for participation in high schools and college level
programs. In addition the HCMA believes the same questions should be asked of
those children participating in recreational level athletics and "club" teams.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a condition that is generally not compatable
with competitive athletics and therefore those with HCM should not participate
in most athletic programs.  HCM is the leading cause of sudden cardiac arrest in
young athletes.
See attached document at the lower right hand portion of your screen to
download the complete document.
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AMERICAN HEART PRE-PARTICIPATION GUIDELINES:
The American Heart Association Guidelines indicate the following information
should be obtained about each student athlete prior to participation.  In
addition the HCMA suggests that children and young adults who have been adopted
or are in any way unsure about their family history be viewed as potentially at
risk and follow up with a comprehensive cardiac evaluation as noted below.
Medical history*
Personal history
1. Exertional chest pain/discomfort
2. Unexplained syncope/near-syncope
3. Excessive exertional and unexplained dyspnea(shortness of breath)/fatigue,
associated with exercise
4. Prior recognition of a heart murmur
5. Elevated systemic blood pressure
Family history
6. Premature death (sudden and unexpected, or otherwise) before age 50 years
due to heart disease, in 1 relative
7. Disability from heart disease in a close relative