Early Detection of Pediatric Heart Conditions

Abstract

The Protecting Young Hearts project focuses on strengthening pre-participation sports physical guidelines by requiring early cardiac screening including mandatory EKG testing for student-athletes in Shelby County. Sudden cardiac arrest is the leading medical cause of death in young athletes, and many underlying heart conditions remain undetected when screenings rely only on self-reported symptoms or family history.

Updating guideline language to include EKGs in school sports clearance would allow earlier detection, reduce preventable emergencies, and give families critical information to protect their children’s health. By advocating for equitable, evidence-based screening standards, the Protecting Young Hearts initiative aims to ensure every young athlete has the safest opportunity to grow, compete, and thrive before something devastating happens.