Arcensus, a leading German biotech firm, has introduced an innovative cardiac preventive program for the Pakistani national hockey team, specifically designed to address the prevalent issue of sudden cardiac death, the primary cause of mortality among active and young athletes. Despite being among the fittest individuals, athletes can unexpectedly develop heart diseases, particularly during stressful situations, often rooted in hereditary factors common among the youth.
The collaborative effort between Arcensus and the Pakistani national hockey team aims to explore the possibility of certain athletes harbouring gene mutations that could predispose them to heart problems. This is achieved through early testing using whole genome sequencing technology. While athletes routinely undergo various costly medical examinations, genetic testing remains an unconventional component of standard medical care.
A positive genetic diagnosis does not signify the end of a professional athletic career. In many cases, athletes with identified predispositions to heart diseases can be treated and resume competitive sports with a low risk of cardiac events.
Siegfried Aikman, the coach of the Pakistani national hockey team, actively participated in the genetic testing initiative and expressed pride in the team’s role as “Ambassadors for Genetics.” The broader goal is to raise awareness not only within the sporting community but also across Pakistan. Aikman shared a personal connection to genetic diseases, as one of the players has lost two sons to such disorders, emphasizing the urgent need to disseminate knowledge and break the chain of genetic diseases in the country.
In Pakistan, genetic disorders have become a significant burden, affecting around 16 million individuals.
The Pakistani national hockey team act as ambassadors and foster awareness as we hope to contribute to the understanding of the frequency and risk factors associated with genetic heart problems in young athletes.
