How does the echo work?

The transducer sends sound waves toward the heart and the sound waves bounce off the heart, and are collected by the transducer. These returning sound waves are processed by a computer, assembled into a two-dimensional image of the heart, and displayed on a TV screen.

 What is a “limited” echo?

The limited echo (4-5 images in black/white) is a cost-effective and time efficient way to provide heart screening because a full comprehensive echo can be expensive and coverage from insurance is not often provided.  The “limited” echo focuses on specific areas of the heart and takes about 2 to 3 minutes to scan for defects.

Should I attend the screening if my child has been told they have a murmur?

A murmur is the sound of blood moving through the heart.  It is often a normal finding, but can be associated with heart abnormalities.  Championship Hearts Foundation screenings are for only one heart abnormality (HCM).  We would be happy to screen your child for this condition, but recommend that if you have been told your child has a murmur to see a pediatric cardiologist for a complete evaluation and to rule out other conditions that are associated with a murmur.

 What if you find HCM in my child?

If HCM is found in your child, the physician at the screening will recommend a full evaluation by a pediatric cardiologist to confirm the results and provide continuity of care for HCM.

 I am not overweight or out of shape, how can I have HCM?

HCM can be inherited, caused by a gene that is abnormal and codes for the heart muscle.  HCM can affect each individual differently and many people never display or develop symptoms. Seeming healthy individuals can possess the abnormality.  It can also be acquired as a result of high blood pressure or aging. 

 Why don’t I hear more about HCM?

HCM is relatively rare in the general population.  Approximately 1 in 500 people possess the abnormality, but only 1 in 200,000 will have a life threatening event because of the disease.  Since these events are very rare, media attention is often not focused on the disease.  HCM is usually talked about after an event of sudden cardiac arrest or death in young athletes.

My son was screened at age 15, does he need to be re-screened at a later date?

 Unless cardiac symptoms are present, a screening at age 15 or later is usually all that is needed.