A decade-long review of a voluntary UK heart-screening programme has found that simple checks can identify previously undiagnosed cardiac conditions in young women who appear healthy. The service, run by Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY) and funded through charitable work with bereaved families, has operated since the early 1990s.
Researchers examined results from almost 40,000 women aged 14-35. They found 175 with hidden heart problems, including 94 considered at high risk of sudden cardiac death, a condition in which the heart stops unexpectedly. The findings are being presented at the British Cardiovascular Society meeting in Manchester.
The data also illustrate the limits of screening. In the same group, 92 heart conditions were not detected by the checks, with 28 described as fairly major. This uncertainty is central to the UK National Screening Committee’s current review of whether all people over 14 should be offered screening for conditions linked to sudden cardiac death. Policymakers must balance potential early diagnosis with the risk of false reassurance, missed cases and anxiety from testing large numbers of young people.
Sudden cardiac death affects an estimated 12 people under 35 in the UK each week. The risk is around three times higher in boys and young men than in girls and young women, but specialists say women are also at risk. Many affected people have no symptoms and may appear fit.
The issue is highlighted by Kaitlin Lawrence, a 24-year-old from Surrey who collapsed before a netball match and was later diagnosed with a heart rhythm disorder. She now has an implanted defibrillator and takes beta-blockers. CRY says some conditions are inherited, and NHS family checks are available when this is suspected. Its review suggests ECG-based screening can find some high-risk cases, while not detecting all disease. The debate will continue as further evidence develops.