Electrocardiogram Screening
Debate between Baroness Twycross and Lord Aberdare
Lord Aberdare
To ask His Majesty’s Government what steps they are taking to widen the availability of electro- cardiogram screening to detect potential heart problems in young people engaging in sporting activities.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Culture, Media and Sport (Baroness Twycross) (Lab)
The safety and well-being of everyone taking part in sport are absolutely paramount. The UK National Screening Committee ran its annual call for proposals last year. I understand that it has received a submission through this process about sudden cardiac death screening in young people engaging in sport. The committee, an independent body which advises Ministers and the NHS about screening, is considering the proposal and will make a decision in due course.
Lord Aberdare (CB)
My Lords, 12 young people die every week from sudden cardiac arrest—80% of them with no prior symptoms and no family history. Taking part in sport or exercise increases the risk by three times. A simple electrocardiogram, properly interpreted, can detect many of the life-threatening conditions. It is good news that the UK National Screening Committee is looking at this, but what can the Minister tell us about what the Government will do to promote greater awareness of the need for such screening and much wider availability for active young people, not just those who are engaged in elite sports?
Baroness Twycross (Lab)
There are differences between different bodies as to the exact number, but every death of a young person from sudden cardiac death is clearly a tragedy which takes them too early. The Government are supporting greater understanding in this area by listening to the UK National Screening Committee when it comes up with its suggestions, and ensuring that, through bodies such as Sport England, which has guidance for sports clubs, and through funding for defibrillators, there is greater awareness of the risks of this.