Sudden Cardiac Death Prediction and Prevention

D espite the significant decline in coronary artery disease (CAD) mortality in the second half of the 20th century, 1 sudden cardiac death (SCD) continues to claim 250 000 to 300 000 US lives annually. 4] However, even in the presence of advanced first responder systems for resuscitation of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, the overall survival rate in a recent North American analysis was 4.6%. 8 SCD can manifest as ventricular tachycardia (VT), ventricular fibrillation (VF), pulseless electric activity (PEA), or asystole. In a significant proportion of patients, SCD can present without warning or a recognized triggering mechanism. The mean age of those affected is in the mid 60s, and at least 40% of patients will suffer SCD before the age of 65.