DUGi

Implementation of an early detection program for Long QT Syndrome in Pakistan to reduce Sudden Cardiac Death in children

http://dugi.udg.edu/item/http:@@@@hdl.handle.net@@10256@@26822

BACKGROUND: Long QT Syndrome is a rare inherited genetic condition characterized by a prolonged QT interval on a baseline ECG. Due to the immaturity of the cardiac conduction system, infants are particularly vulnerable to malignant arrhythmias, which can result in fatal outcomes such as SCD. Studies have demonstrated that ECG screening protocol in newborns is an effective approach to identify infants at risk. In Pakistan, where infant mortality rates remain high, there are currently no diagnostic tools or programs targeting this condition. Implementing a screening program using simple ECG tests offers a feasible and cost-effective strategy for early detection, with the potential to save lives and reduce preventable mortality. OBJECTIVE: The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of an early detection screening program for Long QT Syndrome, adapted to the available resources in Pakistan, in reducing the mortality rate due to unidentified conditions in which sudden cardiac death is included. DESIGN AND METHODS: Structured as a prospective single-centre quasi experimental study. The study will be performed in Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Karachi. All newborns in our study group will undergo an ECG at 48 hours of birth, alongside an assessment of family history for SCD. To determine whether this will reduce mortality, they will be compared to a pre-implementation group of children born five years ago, for whom mortality data and causes will be collected. We aim to evaluate the mortality rate and causes of death before and after implementation of program. To achieve this, newborns data will be obtained from the hospital and mortality data from the competent authority in Pakistan. STUDY PARTICIPANTS: 18.054 newborns will be recruited over an estimated period of one year and two months using a consecutive, non-probabilistic sampling

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