Junior ECG mandatory in 2017

Junior ECG mandatory in 2017

 

ITU encourages athletes to perform the periodic health evaluation (PHE) and to undergo a pre-participation evaluation (PPE) prior to engaging in competitive sport. The prevention of SCD (sudden death) and the screening strategies in our athletes are among the most important goals of the ITU Medical Committee.

The SCD of an athlete on the field remains the most devastating medical event in sports. SCD in endurance sports is rare and 80% deaths are due to underlying cardiac disorder. Over 90% deaths happen during or immediately after exertion, but preliminary observations suggest a higher death rate in triathlon.

Thus, ITU would like to remind all National Federations that the PPE (12 lead rest ECG, Medical Questionnaire, Physical Examination) will be mandatory for all the junior athletes competing in ITU international competitions from January 2017.