Sudden cardiac death: mandatory exclusion of athletes at risk is a step too far. Issue 5 (28th October 2011)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Anderson, Lynley; Exeter, Dan; Bowyer, Lynne
• Is Part Of: British journal of sports medicine. Volume 46:Issue 5(2012)
• Page Start: 331
• Page End: 334
• Publication Date: 2011-10-28
• Subjects: Sports medicine -- Periodicals; 617.1027
• DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2011-090260
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-3674

Abstract

Abstract : Sudden cardiac death (SCD) in young athletes is a distressing event and it is not surprising that some physicians working with sports people are proposing that preventive action should be taken. There is a push for a system similar to that established in some countries, which involves screening and mandatory exclusion of those at risk. We argue that while screening can provide useful information to at-risk athletes making decisions about their future athletic careers, mandatory exclusion of athletes is paternalistic and such decisions are not rightfully within the domain of medicine.