Key result
ECG abnormalities were common among Italian teenagers, with competitive sports participation associated with a significantly lower odds of major ECG abnormalities compared to nonathletes (OR 0.796).
Why the study?
Evidence is lacking regarding the role of ECG screening for sudden cardiac death prevention, prompting evaluation of ECG abnormality prevalence among teenagers by sport participation and competitive status.
Observational (n=11,949)
Yes
Odds Ratio: 0.796 (95% CI 0.678–0.934)
p-value: p=0.005
ECG screening in a general teenage population reveals a 16.3% prevalence of abnormalities, which are more common in non-athletes, and identifies underlying cardiac disease in 1.6% of those with major ECG findings.
ECG abnormalities affect 16% of teens (more in nonathletes); leaves open whether routine screening prevents SCD.
Aim There is lack of evidence regarding the screening role of ECG for sudden cardiac death (SCD) prevention. Our aim was to evaluate the prevalence of ECG abnormalities among teenagers according to sport participation and competitive status. Methods Eleven thousand nine hundred and forty-nine Italian pupils from 179 secondary schools (13–19 years) were consecutively enrolled. ECG abnormalities were divided into minor and major. Medical history, clinical examination and sport activity information were acquired. Further evaluations were suggested in case of major ECG abnormalities. Follow-up was performed at 2 years. Results N = 1945 (16%) pupils had ECG abnormalities. Major ECG abnormalities were detected in 13% of the cohort, minor in 34%. ECG abnormalities were more common in nonathletes compared with athletes. A diagnosis of cardiac disease was reached in 25 (1.6%) of the pupils with major ECG abnormalities. Conclusion ECG abnormalities are common among young populations and more prevalent in nonathletes. Among pupils with major ECG abnormalities 1.6% had a cardiac disease diagnosis. Our results are in line with the data supporting ECG screening in the general young population.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Mancone et al. (2021) conducted an observational in ECG abnormalities / Sudden cardiac death prevention (n=11,949). Competitive sport participation vs. Nonathletes was evaluated on Major ECG abnormalities (OR 0.796, 95% CI 0.678-0.934, p=0.005). ECG abnormalities were common among Italian teenagers, with competitive sports participation associated with a significantly lower odds of major ECG abnormalities compared to nonathletes (OR 0.796).
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: