CARDIAC SCREENING FOR STUDENT ATHLETES As doctors and sporting organizations learn more about the condition known as Sudden Cardiac Death (SCD), their research has opened an emotive and evolving debate about what can be done to protect athletes from SCD and how much money should be spent trying to prevent what is still a rare but devastating occurrence. The condition usually gains public attention after the death of an elite sportsman .However ALL participants in regular athletic training are at increased risk. For most people, regular exercise is associated with cardiovascular health. However, it has long been noted that there is a troubling tendency for athletes to suddenly 'drop dead'. Sudden Cardiac Death is estimated to kill anywhere from 1 in 15,000 to 1 in 50,000 athletes , a rate approximately three times higher than that in the normal population. Doctors have agreed that screening programmes can identify heart abnormalities associated with SCD, but there is much discussion on which tests should be done and on whom and how often. When a life is lost then the cost of preventing that loss becomes irrelevant. Here in Jamaica we have a gifted pool of young athletes who should be afforded the benefit of cardiac screening. The Children’s Heart and Paediatric Centre routinely offers a cardiac screening package for student athletes which consist of an interview, physical examination, Electrocardiogram (ECG) and Echocardiogram (ECHO) investigations. Our annual summer clinic offers this service at reduced rates. All our other routine services such as nutritional consultations, school medicals, immunizations and counselling are also accessible at this clinic. Book your appointment early! Ensure your child is physically and mentally ready to start the new school year.