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Detecting heart abnormalities in youth

The Living for Zachary heart screening is a special program created to screen youth ages 12-22 for heart abnormalities that may lead to sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). The program is offered at both Baylor Scott & White The Heart Hospital – Plano and Baylor Scott & White The Heart Hospital – Denton.

Living for Zachary is a separate non-profit organization named in memory of Zachary Schrah, who died in 2009 from sudden cardiac arrest.

More about Living for Zachary

Heart conditions detected through screening

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  • Brugada syndrome

    Brugada syndrome

    This potentially life-threatening inherited disorder causes an increased risk of abnormal heart rhythms . Many people with Brugada syndrome do not have any symptoms and are unaware of their condition.

  • Coronary artery anomalies (CAA)

    Coronary artery anomalies (CAA)

    In cases of CAA, the coronary arteries are located in an abnormal position, which can cause the arteries to be pinched during intense exercise.

  • Hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM)

    Hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM)

    Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a complex type of heart disease that affects the heart muscle. Sudden cardiac death can be associated with this abnormality, especially in young athletes.

  • Long QT syndrome

    Long QT syndrome

    This heart rhythm disorder can potentially cause fast, chaotic heartbeats. These heartbeats may trigger a sudden fainting spell or seizure. In some cases, the heart may beat erratically for so long that it can cause sudden cardiac death.

Brugada syndrome

This potentially life-threatening inherited disorder causes an increased risk of abnormal heart rhythms . Many people with Brugada syndrome do not have any symptoms and are unaware of their condition.

Coronary artery anomalies (CAA)

In cases of CAA, the coronary arteries are located in an abnormal position, which can cause the arteries to be pinched during intense exercise.

Hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM)

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a complex type of heart disease that affects the heart muscle. Sudden cardiac death can be associated with this abnormality, especially in young athletes.

Long QT syndrome

This heart rhythm disorder can potentially cause fast, chaotic heartbeats. These heartbeats may trigger a sudden fainting spell or seizure. In some cases, the heart may beat erratically for so long that it can cause sudden cardiac death.

What to expect

This noninvasive screening includes:

  • Electrocardiogram
  • Limited 2D echocardiogram
  • Blood pressure screening
  • SCA risk history questionnaire (AHA recommended)
  • Screening reviewed and interpreted by a board-certified cardiologist

Schedule your heart screening

Insurance may not cover the cost of the heart screening. Cash, credit card or checks are accepted forms of payment.

Call 469.814.3565 to schedule an appointment

Locations

We offer two screening locations to serve you:

Baylor Scott & White The Heart Hospital – Denton
2801 S Mayhill Rd
Denton, TX 76208

Baylor Scott & White Center for Advanced Cardiovascular Care – Plano
4716 Alliance Blvd, Pavilion II, Ste 300
Plano, TX 75093