GAA CARDIAC SCREENING PROTOCOL
23 August 2019
Runai: Anne McGrath-Aghaderg GAC &
Ballyvarley HC, Scarva Road, Banbridge, Co. Down BT32 3QL. Tel/Fax: 07713758902
The GAA Cardiac Screening
in Athletes Advice.
The GAA’s Medical, Scientific and Welfare Committee
have advised that the most effective way to identify potential risk of Sudden
Cardiac Death is for players over the age of 14 years to undergo cardiac
screening on one occasion.
It is also advised that this process is repeated
before the age of 25 years.
Of all the cardiac screening tools, one of the best
predictors of sudden cardiac death risk is a positive questionnaire.
There is a
lack of scientific consensus on the overall value of further screening.
The
cardiac screening questionnaire can be accessed here. It is recommended that
players who are between the ages of 14- 21 years complete the questionnaire
under the supervision of/in conjunction with, their parents/guardians.
Any
positive responses should be discussed with your GP. Players should consult
with their family doctor if they wish to get further screening.
Those
who choose to pursue further screening however should be aware of the
following:
·
Testing should be done in a centre where ECGs/ECHOs are being reported by
experienced sports cardiologists
·
There is a significant percentage that will have an abnormality which may
require further evaluation
·
A small percentage may end up uncertain as to whether it is safe for them to
participate or not
Further information on this topic can be obtained
at
YOU CAN DOWNLOAD AND FILL IN THE QUESTIONNAIRE FROM OUR 'DOWNLOADS' SECTION