Surge in Sudden Cardiac Arrest Among Teens: Expert Advice on Taking Action

According to recent observations, there has been a notable increase in cases of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) among teenagers. After a lull, last week India reported the deaths of two teenagers due to suspected heart attacks. A 15-year-old lost his life due to a heart attack in Greater Noida while playing in school, while a 16-year-old boy died of suspected cardiac arrest in Telangana. Experts have shed light on this concerning trend and provided recommendations for proactive measures that can be taken to address the issue effectively.

Sudden cardiac arrest, a condition where the heart unexpectedly stops beating, can be fatal if immediate medical assistance is not provided. While it was traditionally associated with older adults, there has been a surge in instances affecting teenagers, raising alarm bells among healthcare professionals.

Medical specialists suggest that various factors contribute to the rising incidence of SCA in teenagers. These include genetic predisposition, structural heart abnormalities, underlying heart conditions, drug abuse, poor lifestyle habits, and excessive physical exertion without adequate rest and recovery. Identifying and addressing these risk factors can play a pivotal role in prevention.

Experts emphasize the significance of creating awareness among both teenagers and their parents regarding the signs and symptoms of SCA. Prompt recognition and timely intervention through cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and automated external defibrillators (AEDs) can significantly increase survival rates. Schools, sports clubs, and community centers are encouraged to have trained personnel and appropriate equipment readily available to respond to emergencies.

Furthermore, comprehensive heart screenings are recommended for teenagers involved in competitive sports or those who exhibit potential risk factors. These screenings can help detect underlying cardiac abnormalities and enable timely medical interventions.

Taking a holistic approach, experts highlight the importance of a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, stress management, and abstaining from substance abuse. Such measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of SCA and promote overall cardiovascular well-being among teenagers.

Re-reported from the story originally published in News 18.