Reframing the debate: Screening athletes to prevent sudden cardiac death

Abstract

In a recent issue of HeartRhythm, Maron1 and Sharma2 shared their opinions regarding a mandatory, national cardiovascular screening program for athletes in the United States. The point/counterpoint centered on the inclusion (or not) of a resting 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) in addition to a history and physical examination during preparticipation screening of athletes. In response to these articles, we were invited to write a position paper on cardiovascular screening in athletes and to “agree with one position or the other, or with neither, or conclude that more information is needed before an opinion can be offered.” Rather than restate the arguments for and against ECG screening and the many points on which these experts disagree, we hope to reframe this debate in an attempt to help the medical community refocus on ways to improve cardiovascular screening in young athletes.