AMSSM Position Statement on Cardiovascular Preparticipation Screening in Athletes: Current evidence, knowledge gaps,...

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Cardiology
• Preventive Health

Background:

• Cardiovascular screening is standard for young athletes to prevent sudden cardiac arrest and death (SCA/D).
• Debate exists regarding the optimal screening strategy, particularly the addition of electrocardiograms (ECGs) to history and physical exams.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address evidence gaps in preparticipation cardiovascular screening for athletes.
• To propose a new paradigm for individualized screening strategies from a primary care sports medicine perspective.

Main Methods:

• A task force by the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine (AMSSM) reviewed current evidence and knowledge gaps.
• Development of a new paradigm to guide physicians in selecting appropriate screening strategies based on athlete population, community needs, and resources.

Main Results:

• The absence of definitive outcome-based evidence prevents endorsement of any single, universal screening strategy, including legislative mandates.
• Physician assessment, considering risks and available resources, is crucial for determining the most beneficial screening model.

Conclusions:

• AMSSM does not endorse a universal cardiovascular screening strategy for all athletes.
• Individualized assessment by physicians is key to balancing benefits and harms of screening, promoting safe sports participation and reducing SCA/D.