‘It's vitally important' – Dillon Quirke Foundation launches cardiac screening for young cyclists in bid to prevent SADS
A cardiac screening initiative has been launched today in Killarney, Co Kerry, to assess the heart health of young athletes in a bid to prevent Sudden Adult Death Syndrome (SADS).
Every year, 100 young people under 40 die of SADS in Ireland due to an undetected heart defect.
The Dillon Quirke Foundation – set up in honour of the 24-year-old Tipperary hurler who collapsed and died during a match in 2022 – is launching the initiative which will screen 90 of Munster's 168 young cyclists aged between 14 and 18 for cardiac abnormalities.
'Since starting the Foundation, we've seen remarkable progress in the level of cardiac screening across GAA, soccer, rugby, boxing and performing arts and sports clubs nationwide,' said Dan Quirke, father of the late Dillon.
'We are committed to broadening our reach and expertise across more clubs and sporting bodies and expanding into the cycling community marks a crucial step in raising awareness of the prevalence of SADS and the serious heart conditions that often go undetected.
'It's vitally important for young people, regardless of their sporting and fitness abilities, to understand their heart health and screening is a simple, quick and painless way to protect yourself and your loved ones.'
Last year, the Foundation managed to detect cardiac abnormalities in 243 of the 10,128 young people it screened.
The individuals in question were advised to undergo follow-up cardiology tests including echocardiograms, cardiac electrophysiologist reviews, cardiology reviews and stress tests.
Stephen Griffin, Munster Regional Development Officer for Cycling Ireland, said: 'At Cycling Ireland, we are dedicated to promoting and enhancing the sport of cycling by supporting the health and wellbeing of all our members, especially our junior and youth athletes.
Describing the process as 'a quick and easy' method that 'can cost less than the price of a new helmet', Griffin continued: 'Initiatives like this play an important role in raising awareness about the value of early cardiac screening in helping to prevent Sudden Adult Death Syndrome.
"We support all young athletes taking proactive steps in monitoring their heart health and we are encouraged by the work The Dillon Quirke Foundation does.'
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