Broader Screening For Sudden Cardiac Death Supported By Research
Around one in 500 Swedes carry a genetic mutation which can cause sudden cardiac death. The diagnosis can lead to major lifestyle changes, but quality of life can be maintained with the right advice and support, reveals a new study from the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Sweden. The most common cause of sudden cardiac death in children and adolescents is the heart muscle disease hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The condition is hereditary, and if one family member is affected the Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare recommends that the whole family is screened.
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Gene Discovered
In a study published today in The American Journal of Human Genetics, an international team of medical scientists has for the first time discovered a gene responsible for a fatal abdominal condition that afflicts tens of thousands of people worldwide. Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a swelling of the abdominal aorta to more than 1.5 times its usual size, usually representing an underlying weakness in the aorta's wall at that location. The biggest concern is the risk of rupture, causing severe pain and massive internal hemorrhage.
Disco Science Song Does Not Help CPR Depth Of Compression
According to a new investigation the song "Disco Science" is better than no music at all in helping to administer the required number of chest compressions (CPR) to save an individual's life following a heart attack prior to arriving at the hospital. The study was published online in Emergency Medicine Journal. However the song, which featured in the soundtrack to Guy Ritchie's film Snatch in 2000, doesn't improve the depth of compression. According to the researchers it's time to give up trying to find the perfect song to help the procedure.