The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS') Office of Inspector General has issued a consumer alert, urging parents, caregivers, athletic programs and student athletes to beware of fraudulent cardiovascular testing schemes exploiting fears around sudden cardiac arrest in young athletes.

The alert notes that "diagnostic testing should occur only after a physician with an established doctor-patient relationship assesses what tests are appropriate" and that "a doctor cannot determine which tests [are needed] without conducting a proper clinical evaluation."

In early 2025, the ACC released new guidance addressing competitive sports participation for athletes with cardiovascular abnormalities. The statement covers sports classifications, preparticipation cardiac evaluation, ethical aspects of competitive sport eligibility, and various cardiovascular conditions and more.

Access HHS' consumer alert and explore ACC's Scientific Statement on the topic.

Clinical Topics: Arrhythmias and Clinical EP, Cardiovascular Care Team, Sports and Exercise Cardiology, SCD/Ventricular Arrhythmias

Keywords: ACC Advocacy, Physician-Patient Relations, United States Dept. of Health and Human Services, Cardiovascular Abnormalities, Death, Sudden, Cardiac, Diagnostic Techniques and Procedures, Sports, Students, Athletes