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In my role as the director of a heart health initiative called Harboring Hearts, I focus on supporting both pediatric and adult heart surgery patients. While discussions around youth heart conditions are often limited, they are very real. Some children are born with congenital heart defects that persist throughout their lives, while others may develop issues later. We often hear about young athletes collapsing during games, yet the prevalence of cardiac arrest among children and teenagers is less frequently addressed. Recently, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommended that all children undergo screening for potential heart problems. Let’s explore the importance of cardiac screenings for individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
Heart issues can affect anyone, regardless of age or race, and families with a history of heart conditions should ensure their children are screened periodically starting in adolescence. Just as HPV screenings and vaccinations can begin as early as age nine, discussions about cardiac screenings should not be stigmatized or avoided. Following the recent cardiac incident involving Danish soccer player Christian Eriksen, who required heart surgery after collapsing on the field, the topic of screening children for heart issues is once again in the spotlight.
Many heart conditions can be asymptomatic, making sudden death a possibility, especially among youth. While kids involved in sports have their hearts working hard, factors like excitement from a scary movie or intense emotions can also elevate their adrenaline levels. As parents, it is crucial to be vigilant about our children’s health and advocate for them in medical settings. According to the Texas Heart Institute, “Heart disease may not be a leading cause of death among children and teenagers, but it is the primary cause of death among adults in the United States. In fact, someone dies from cardiovascular disease in America every 37 seconds.” Heart disease is serious—it claimed the life of my own mother, making me particularly protective of my heart and my children’s.
Although the incidence of heart disease in children is relatively low, certain medications, particularly those prescribed for mental health, can elevate the risk. For instance, my son, a young Black male, faces increased heart disease risk due to his ADHD medication. Research from Denmark indicates that medications commonly used for ADHD, such as Ritalin or Concerta, can double the likelihood of heart problems.
The Texas Heart Institute further states, “Less than 15% of children have high cholesterol levels, but studies show that fatty plaque buildup can begin in childhood and progress to adulthood, resulting in atherosclerosis. This condition ultimately leads to heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States.” By neglecting to screen our children for cardiac issues, we risk their long-term health. Additionally, the Standard American Diet (SAD) contributes to health risks, providing further justification for early screenings.
The AAP’s latest recommendations suggest that healthcare providers update their medical forms to include questions aimed at identifying children who may be at higher risk for cardiac arrest. These questions might include whether a child has fainted unexpectedly or if a family member under 50 has died from sudden heart problems, or if there are hereditary heart conditions like cardiomyopathy or Marfan syndrome. A positive response to any of these inquiries should prompt further evaluation of the child’s cardiac health.
Children are just as human as adults, with similar organ systems. They deserve access to the same heart health screenings that adults receive. If detected early, many health issues can be managed effectively. Advocating for your child’s cardiac screening is essential; if your doctor isn’t addressing this, feel empowered to ask. Your child’s healthcare provider plays a vital role in ensuring their well-being. While the idea of cardiac screening may seem daunting, it is far scarier to face the consequences of undetected heart issues, including the possibility of surgery or even worse outcomes.
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Summary
The AAP has called for universal cardiac screening for children, emphasizing the importance of early detection of heart issues, which can manifest silently but have serious consequences. With a focus on proactive healthcare, parents are encouraged to advocate for their children’s cardiac health and seek screenings, especially if there are risk factors involved.
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