Sudden Cardiac Death (SCD) claims the lives of over 450,000 Americans each year* and is the #1 killer in the U.S. SCD can result in the death of individuals who may or may not know of pre-existing heart conditions.

SCD often occurs in active, seemingly healthy people with no known heart disease or other health problems. But the truth is that it is not a random event. Most victims already have heart disease or other health problems of which they are completely unaware. Fortunately, lives can be saved with early detection.

A comprehensive cardiac screening, including both an Electrocardiogram (EKG/ECG) and an Echocardiogram (ECHO), can alert you to risks associated with certain serious cardiac diseases. These two tests are generally considered to be the most effective screenings available and may help uncover serious heart conditions that potentially can lead to Sudden Cardiac Death.

* U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services, MMWR Weekly, February 15, 2002 / 51(06);123-6

Peace of Mind is Now Affordable
Echocardiograms and Electrocardiograms are often expensive to obtain, typically costing $1,500. Many individuals with heart conditions experience no symptoms, and frequently, insurance providers will not cover the cost of these exams. Families can be screened at Heartfelt events for a donation of $100 per person. Additionally, Heartfelt secures sponsorship funding and grants to supplement costs in order to offer free screenings for the underserved and low-income families, whenever possible.

What is “EF”
EF, or Ejection Fraction, is the amount of blood pumped out of the heart during each beat or contraction. In a healthy heart, 50-75% of the blood is pumped out during each beat. The EF is obtained with the Echocardiogram.

What is an Echocardiogram?
An Echocardiogram (echo), or ultrasound, is a quick, simple, and painless test that displays moving images of the heart. This test is similar to having ultrasound pictures of an early pregnancy taken in women. The test can identify problems with the heart’s structure and also measures the pumping function of the heart to determine the EF.

What is an Electrocardiogram?
An Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) is a device that measures the electrical activity of the heart and is used to detect heart rhythm problems. It is also quick, simple, and painless.

Why have a Cardiac screening?

• You have a family history of heart disease or sudden death
• You have been diagnosed with a heart murmur
• You have high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea, high cholesterol, chronic lung condition, alcohol dependency, smoke, suffered a previous stroke, or have any other heart condition
• You are an athlete and are concerned about your heart health
• You want to learn more about your heart health
• You have not had an EKG or Echocardiogram in the past year
• You don’t know your Ejection Fraction (EF)
• You are looking for peace of mind100