Related Experiment Video

Updated: Mar 10, 2026

Implantation of Electroencephalogram and Electrocardiogram Telemetry Devices in Neonatal Rabbit Kits
06:46

Implantation of Electroencephalogram and Electrocardiogram Telemetry Devices in Neonatal Rabbit Kits

Published on: February 28, 2025

885

Sudden cardiac death in South India: Incidence, risk factors and pathology

Uma N Srivatsa1, K Swaminathan2, K Sithy Athiya Munavarah2

  • 1University of California (Davis) Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, United States.

Indian Pacing and Electrophysiology Journal
|December 8, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) predominantly affects men in South India, often linked to acute myocardial infarction (MI). Understanding the pathology and risk factors is crucial for targeted prevention strategies in this population.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Public Health
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is a significant cause of mortality in industrialized nations, particularly among those with coronary artery disease (CAD).
  • The prevalence and pathological basis of SCD in the South Asian population, despite their high CAD rates, remain largely uncharacterized.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the frequency and underlying cardiac pathology of sudden cardiac death (SCD) in a South Indian population.
  • To determine the demographic characteristics and etiological factors associated with SCD in this region.

Main Methods:

  • A retrospective review of medical records for patients experiencing unexplained sudden death (USD) was conducted.
  • Cases involving trauma, toxicology, or non-cardiac causes were excluded, with cardiac pathology confirmed via autopsy.
  • Sudden cardiac death (SCD) rates were calculated using census and vital statistics data.

Main Results:

  • During a two-year period, 223 patients presented with USD; SCD was attributed to myocardial infarction (MI) in 87% of cases.
  • Acute anterior MI was common (69%), with small to moderate infarct sizes predominating (76%).
  • The estimated SCD rate in individuals over 35 years was 39.7 per 100,000, with a male-to-female ratio of 4.6:1.

Conclusions:

  • Sudden cardiac death (SCD) in this South Indian cohort primarily occurred in relatively young men and was frequently associated with acute MI.
  • Findings suggest a need for improved healthcare access, preventive strategies, and emergency management to mitigate SCD from acute MI in this locale.
Abstract

Keywords:
AutopsyRisk factorsSouth IndiaSudden cardiac death

More Related Videos

Determining the Likelihood of Variant Pathogenicity Using Amino Acid-level Signal-to-Noise Analysis of Genetic Variation07:15

Determining the Likelihood of Variant Pathogenicity Using Amino Acid-level Signal-to-Noise Analysis of Genetic Variation

Published on: January 16, 2019

11.5K
Microelectrode Array Recording of Sinoatrial Node Firing Rate to Identify Intrinsic Cardiac Pacemaking Defects in Mice09:20

Microelectrode Array Recording of Sinoatrial Node Firing Rate to Identify Intrinsic Cardiac Pacemaking Defects in Mice

Published on: July 5, 2021

3.7K

Related Concept Videos

Coronary Artery Disease III: Clinical Manifestations01:30

Coronary Artery Disease III: Clinical Manifestations

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a primary health risk worldwide, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. The condition arises from the buildup of atherosclerotic plaques within the coronary arteries, resulting in diminished blood supply to the heart muscle.The clinical manifestations of CAD vary widely, from asymptomatic stages to severe, life-threatening conditions. Understanding these manifestations is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management.Angina Pectoris: The Warning...
504
Coronary Artery Disease II: Pathophysiology01:26

Coronary Artery Disease II: Pathophysiology

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) originates from a series of events that impair the function of coronary arteries, the blood vessels responsible for delivering oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. The pathophysiology of CAD is closely linked to atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory and lipid-driven condition affecting the vascular endothelium.1. Endothelial DamageThe process begins with damage to the vascular endothelium, which serves as a protective barrier between the blood and the vessel...
860
Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy01:29

Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, or HCM, is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder characterized by asymmetric left ventricular hypertrophy without ventricular dilation. It is more common in men and is typically diagnosed in young, athletic adults.EtiologyHCM is primarily genetic and is caused by mutations in genes encoding sarcomeric proteins. Researchers have identified over 1400 mutations across at least 11 different genes. Among these, the most frequently occurring mutations are found in the...
603
Mechanism of Cardiac Arrhythmias01:28

Mechanism of Cardiac Arrhythmias

Arrhythmias are irregular heart rhythms occurring when the heart's electrical impulses become abnormal. These disturbances can lead to various symptoms, depending on their severity and the underlying cause. Some common factors contributing to arrhythmias include hypoxia, ischemia, electrolyte imbalances, excessive catecholamine exposure, drug toxicity, and muscle overstretching. Arrhythmias can be classified into two main types based on the rate and site of origin of abnormal heart rhythms.
2.5K
Acute Coronary Syndrome II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations01:19

Acute Coronary Syndrome II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations

The pathophysiology of Acute Coronary Syndrome [ACD] involves several key processes:The main underlying cause of ACD is atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the buildup of lipid-laden plaques within the coronary arteries.As the atherosclerotic plaque grows in the coronary artery, it may become unstable due to the formation of a lipid-rich core and a thin fibrous cap. Inflammatory cells within the plaque, such as macrophages, secrete enzymes that degrade the...
611
Dysrhythmias II: Classification of Tachyarrhythmias01:28

Dysrhythmias II: Classification of Tachyarrhythmias

Tachyarrhythmias are a type of dysrhythmia where the heart rate exceeds 100 beats per minute. Here are some common types of tachyarrhythmias:Sinus TachycardiaSinus tachycardia originates from increased impulses from the sinus node, leading to an elevated heart rate. It is often triggered by stress, fever, or exercise.Patients may experience palpitations, a sensation of a racing heart, dizziness, and chest discomfort.Causes and Risk Factors: Common causes include physical exertion, emotional...
710