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Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Risk Factors and Screening

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Cardiomyopathy
Diagnosis and
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Most people with HCM have a low risk for sudden cardiac death. However, HCM is the most common cause of sudden cardiac death in people under age 30. HCM may be best known for its role in cardiac arrest and subsequent death in some young professional athletes.

HCM can be genetic, so anyone whose relative has been diagnosed or treated for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy should seek medical advice and get screened. In other instances, there is no genetic relationship. Because of this, all adults who are physically active or play sports should be screened.

Keith Mankowitz, MD, FACC, discusses symptoms and treatment options for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a medical condition that may be passed on from generation to generation. It is important for you or your family members to have screening if you have a first-degree relative with the condition. First-degree relatives are your parents, siblings and children.

The first step is to have an electrocardiogram (ECG) and echocardiogram (echo) to check your heart.

If the test results show signs of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, you will need to see a cardiologist who specializes in HCM. To meet our St. Luke's doctors who treat patients with this condition, meet our Hyptertrophic Cardiomyopathy Center of Comprehensive Management and Excellence physicians.

If your test results are normal, we suggest a follow up echo and EKG every three years until you are 30 years old, and then every 5 years thereafter.

Sudden Cardiac Death Risk
Most people with HCM have a low risk for sudden cardiac death. However, it is important to identify the small number of patients with HCM who do have a higher risk for sudden cardiac death, so preventive measures can be taken.

People with HCM who have a higher risk for sudden cardiac death include:
  • Patients who have a family history of sudden cardiac death
  • Young patients who have had several episodes of syncope (fainting)
  • Patients who experience an abnormal blood pressure response with exercise
  • Patients who have a history of arrhythmia with a fast heart rate
  • Patients with severe symptoms and poor heart function
Your doctor can discuss your personal risk and appropriate preventive treatments to reduce your risk.