Orange County Athletes Who Plan to Participate in Sports This Year Must Have Electrocardiogram Test… Why Is That?

From Orange County Public Schools:

Students who plan to participate in OCPS Athletics programs must complete a physical each year. NEW for the 2021-22 school year, electrocardiogram (ECG) screenings are REQUIRED for high school students wishing to participate in athletic programs. 

ECG screenings help identify athletes who are at risk for sudden cardiac arrest which is the leading cause of death in athletics. 

ECGs will be required of all high school student-athletes prior to the start of their 2021-2022 FHSAA season. 

Through local medical providers and organizations, ECGs will be offered on high school campuses.