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The specter of sudden cardiac deaths casts a chilling shadow. This is not merely a statistical concern; it's a pressing issue that demands our unwavering attention. The gravity of this matter hit home during a poignant conversation with my good friend Antonis Tipper, a Cardiac Physiologist at North Middlesex Hospital, prompting a deep dive into the crucial work of CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young).
Awareness: Shaping a Future
The first pillar in CRY's mission is awareness, a beacon guiding us towards early identification of those at risk. Heightening awareness isn't just about recognising the problem; it's about fostering a clinical environment that responds adeptly to the intricacies of inherited cardiac conditions in young individuals.
Screening: A Path to Securing Futures
Screening emerges as a cost-effective linchpin in this battle. Identifying young people at risk through comprehensive screening isn't merely an option; it's an imperative. The conditions, when detected early, can be treated, paving the way for a secure future for those identified. Every young person deserves the choice to undergo testing, a choice that could be life-changing.
Research: Illuminating the Path Forward
CRY's research program provides a unique vantage point, delving into general population-based data that allows insightful comparisons across athletes, ethnicities, and genders. This research not only contributes to a better understanding of what is normal for young people but also serves as a cornerstone for identifying and treating those at risk.
Support: Nurturing Hearts Beyond Diagnosis
The emotional aftermath of a sudden cardiac death is profound, affecting families in ways that are hard to quantify. CRY steps in, offering both emotional and clinical support to families navigating this challenging journey. Beyond the clinical realm, CRY becomes a beacon of solace for those affected.
NexxtGen Football's Full Support
NexxtGen Football wholeheartedly aligns with and supports the vital initiative undertaken by CRY. As we delve into the intricacies of cardiac screening, we acknowledge its pivotal role in unveiling potential risks and creating a roadmap for intervention. The collaboration with CRY is not merely a sponsorship; it's a shared commitment to the well-being of our young athletes.
Cardiac Screening: A Beacon of Hope
CRY's subsidised ECG and Echocardiogram screenings stand as beacons of hope for young people aged 14 to 35. A simple ECG test, when analysed by a cardiologist, can diagnose most cardiac abnormalities. For extra clarity, an Echocardiogram, a painless ultrasound scan, can provide further insights. Notably, if there has been a sudden death in the family of an individual under 35, the family is entitled to be screened on the NHS.
NexxtGen Football's Call to Action
NexxtGen Football urges every young person, every family, to consider the importance of cardiac screening. We stand united with CRY in emphasising the need for awareness, screening, research, and support. Together, we can transform this awareness into action, securing the futures of our young athletes and preventing the devastating impact of sudden cardiac deaths. Let's champion the cause, not merely as football enthusiasts, but as guardians of young hearts.
Best wishes,
