Cardiac evaluation in the armed forces. A statement of the European Association of Preventive Cardiology of the ESC.
Abela M., Borjesson M., Broekhuizen L., Castelletti S., Cavarretta E., Davos CH., D'Ascenzi F., Franzos MA., Güttler N., Haigney M., Holdsworth D., Nicol E., Stanton K., Biffi A.
Sudden cardiac death, although infrequent, is a well-documented reality in young, often asymptomatic individuals. The risk of cardiac events is markedly amplified during high intensity physical activity, a circumstance commonly encountered in military environments. In this setting, undetected cardiovascular disease can have profound operational, safety, and morale consequences, particularly during high-demand duties where physiological stress is substantial and immediate medical support may be limited. This statement provides a structured approach to cardiovascular screening across all branches of military service, with the aim of promoting consistency and uniformity.