Sudden Cardiac Death Initiative: A National Campaign to Raise Awareness of Sudden Cardiac Death

Moderate aerobic exercise is widely recognized for lowering the risk of coronary heart disease and mortality. However, for individuals with certain heart conditions, exercise can paradoxically increase the risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD), the leading cause of sudden death among athletes. Despite its rarity, with an estimated occurrence of 1 in every 40,000 to 80,000 athletes annually, SCD has a profound emotional and social impact on communities.

The Sudden Cardiac Death Initiative aims to reduce the incidence of SCD in Egypt by enhancing community health education and raising awareness among the public and athletes about the risks and preventive measures associated with SCD. The initiative also seeks to provide essential first aid and CPR training and equip sports facilities with Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs).

The initiative is a collaboration between the Cardiovascular Research Education and Prevention (CVREP) Foundation, Wadi El Neel Hospital, the Egyptian Ministry of Health and Population, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and Expand (one of ICOM Group). It was launched on June 14, 2024, during the CardioAlex 2024 Conference at Bibliotheca Alexandrina. The event featured educational videos, presentations on SCD cases, and discussions on cardiovascular disease risks and prevention strategies led by Dr. Mohamed Sobhy and Dr. Hazem Khamis.

Key activities included:

1. Awareness sessions with over 300 attendees, assessed through pre- and post-session evaluations.

2. First aid and CPR training programs.

3. Supplying sports facilities with AEDs and other critical medical equipment.

Initial outcomes indicated a significant increase in awareness and engagement from sports club presidents and representatives. The initiative highlighted the importance of addressing SCD through community education and improved medical alertness in sports facilities.

The Sudden Cardiac Death Initiative is a crucial step toward reducing SCD risks in Egypt. By focusing on awareness, education, and equipping sports facilities with advanced medical equipment, the initiative aims to save lives and enhance the safety and well-being of athletes and the general population. Continued collaboration among the Ministry of Health and Population, Ministry of Youth and Sports, CVREP, Wadi El Neel Hospital, and Expand is essential to the sustained impact of this initiative.