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In my role as the director of a heart health organization, my focus is on supporting patients of all ages who undergo heart surgery. While discussions about youth heart conditions are often limited, the reality is that many children face these challenges. Some are born with congenital heart defects, which they carry throughout their lives, while others may develop issues as they grow. We’ve all heard tragic stories about young athletes collapsing during games, yet the broader issue of cardiac arrest in children often goes unnoticed. Recently, the American Academy of Pediatrics proposed that all children undergo screenings for potential heart issues. Let’s explore the importance of these screenings for individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
Heart conditions are indiscriminate, and our approach to screening should reflect that. Children with a family history of heart disease should start receiving evaluations during their adolescent years. Just as HPV vaccinations can begin at age 9, cardiac screenings should be openly discussed. Our society tends to react to health issues rather than proactively address them. The cardiac arrest incident involving Danish soccer player Christian Eriksen, who required heart surgery after collapsing during a match, has reignited the conversation about youth cardiac screenings.
Many heart issues go unnoticed, often without any symptoms, leading to sudden fatalities, particularly in younger individuals. While active children are aware of their heart rates during sports, their adrenaline levels can also surge due to stressful situations, like watching a horror film or experiencing anger. As parents, it is vital to monitor our children’s health and advocate for them, especially during medical visits. According to the Texas Heart Institute, “Heart disease is not a leading cause of death among children and teenagers, but it is the top cause of death for adults in the U.S. In fact, someone dies from cardiovascular disease every 37 seconds.” Heart disease is a serious issue, underscored by my own mother’s passing from it, which has made me particularly vigilant about my family’s heart health.
Although the diagnosis rate of heart disease in children is low, certain medications, like those prescribed for mental health conditions, can elevate the risk. For instance, my son, a young Black male, faces increased heart disease risks due to his ADHD medication. Research indicates that drugs commonly prescribed for ADHD, such as Ritalin or Concerta, can potentially double the likelihood of heart issues, according to a Danish study.
Data from the Texas Heart Institute reveals that while less than 15% of children exhibit high cholesterol levels, fatty plaque buildup can begin in childhood and progress into adulthood—a condition known as atherosclerosis. Over time, atherosclerosis can lead to heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States. By neglecting cardiac screenings, we jeopardize our children’s future health. Additionally, the Standard American Diet (SAD) contributes to the need for early screenings.
The American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended that medical professionals revise their patient intake forms to include questions that assess a child’s risk for cardiac arrest. These questions may inquire whether the child has experienced unexplained fainting spells, if a family member under 50 has died from sudden heart issues, or if there is a family history of hereditary heart conditions such as cardiomyopathy or Marfan syndrome. If a child answers affirmatively, doctors will conduct further evaluations of their cardiac health.
Children are human beings with the same physiological structures as adults, and they deserve access to the same screenings that adults receive, particularly regarding heart health. Early detection of health issues allows for timely interventions. If your child’s doctor isn’t conducting heart screenings, you should feel empowered to request them. The pediatrician is an essential part of your support system, responsible for ensuring your child’s health and safety. While the thought of a cardiac screening may be daunting, the alternative—standing by your child’s bedside during surgery or, worse, facing a loss—is far more frightening.
For further insights into health topics, you can explore this other blog post, or visit Make a Mom for comprehensive information on home insemination kits. Additionally, for more resources on pregnancy and home insemination, check out Healthline’s article on intrauterine insemination.
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Summary:
The American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizes the need for cardiac screenings in children, highlighting that heart conditions can affect youth without warning. With a focus on early detection and prevention, it’s crucial for parents to advocate for their children’s heart health, especially considering the risks associated with certain medications and lifestyle choices.
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