Abstract
ObjectiveThe aim of this study is to define epidemiologic differences and the most common pathologies that cause nontraumatic sudden, natural death in people in the age group of 18-35 years. Identifying causes of sudden death in this age group is important for determining approaches for prevention.MethodsWe performed a descriptive statistical methodology, analysis, and interpretation using demographic and autopsy data of sudden deaths. A total of 4034 autopsies were reviewed and 66 cases of sudden death were included in this study. ResultsWe identified 58 (87.9%) subjects in whom the adjudicated cause of death was of potential cardiac etiology. The most common cause of sudden young adult death was ischemic heart disease associated with the atherosclerotic coronary artery (n=24, 36.3%), followed by ischemic heart disease associated with nonatherosclerotic coronary artery disease and dissecting aortic aneurysm.ConclusionWe put forth that the main cause of sudden young adult death was cardiac (87.9%) in origin. Of these cardiac causes, ischemic etiology associated with atherosclerosis was the main reason for sudden young adult deaths. In order to reduce the incidence of sudden young adult deaths, major efforts should be directed to prevent atherosclerosis in this age group.
Highlights
The definition of sudden death varies [1]
The most common cause of sudden young adult death was ischemic heart disease associated with the atherosclerotic coronary artery (n=24, 36.3%), followed by ischemic heart disease associated with nonatherosclerotic coronary artery disease and dissecting aortic aneurysm
In the study by Ecart et al, sudden death was defined as an event that resulted in death or fatal life support within one hour after collapse, or unexpected death in the absence of a witness, in the absence of a known or suspected condition that may predispose to fatal disease [3]
Summary
The aim of this study is to define epidemiologic differences and the most common pathologies that cause nontraumatic sudden, natural death in people in the age group of 18-35 years. Identifying causes of sudden death in this age group is important for determining approaches for prevention
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