Is Preventing Sudden Cardiac Death Realistic?

  1. Eduardo A. Sanchez, MD
  1. Lawrence, NY 11559

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    TO THE EDITOR:

    The recent overview of sudden cardiac death by Myerburg and colleagues [1] was informative. However, as a general internist, I have difficulty applying this knowledge preventively.

    The pathophysiology of sudden cardiac death is multifactorial and complex. To be effective, prevention must be targeted at the general population.

    The worst outcome among survivors of a major cardiovascular event is seen in the subgroup with low ejection fractions (<30%). Because the underlying cause in most of these patients is coronary artery disease, does ultrafast computed tomography have a role in identifying coronary calcifications in the screening of these patients?

    In view of the unexpected results of the Cardiac Arryhthmia Suppression Trial (CAST) [3], would a different outcome in the treated group have resulted from the use of oral magnesium supplements [4]?

    Eduardo A. Sanchez, MD

    Lawrence, NY 11559

    The Editors welcome submissions for possible publication in the Letters section. Authors of letters should:

    •Include no more than 300 words of text, three authors, and five references

    •Type with double-spacing

    •Send three copies of the letter, an authors' form signed by all authors, and a cover letter describing any conflicts of interest related to the contents of the letter.

    Letters commenting on an Annals article will be considered if they are received within 6 weeks of the time the article was published. Only some of the letters received can be published. Published letters are edited and may be shortened; tables and figures are included only selectively. Authors will be notified that the letter has been received. If the letter is selected for publication, the author will be notified about 3 weeks before the publication date. Unpublished letters cannot be returned.

    Annals welcomes electronically submitted letters.

    References

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