Calon Hearts is urging people across west Wales to take up heart screening appointments this weekend that could make a lifesaving difference.
Every week in the UK, at least 12 seemingly healthy young people die from undiagnosed heart conditions, often with no symptoms or warning signs.
The Welsh charity has already screened more than 34,800 hearts, trained over 600,000 people in CPR and placed more than 37,000 defibrillators in communities across the UK. However, misconceptions about who should be screened remain, with many believing it is only necessary for athletes or those experiencing symptoms.
Calon Hearts is working to change that through accessible community screening sessions across Wales.
The charity is now encouraging people to attend a screening session taking place this weekend at Bronwydd Hall, Carmarthenshire (SA33 6BD) on Saturday 16 May.
While all free pre-bookable appointments for 15½ to 26-year-olds have now been taken, walk-ins will still be welcomed wherever possible. There are also just eight heavily subsidised screening spaces remaining for people aged 27 and over, with demand expected to be high.
Anyone considering booking is being encouraged not to leave it too late.
Further upcoming sessions will also take place on 6 June at Haverfordwest High School (SA61 2NX) and on 20 June at the Feathers Hotel, Aberaeron (SA46 0AG).
With donations from the Ben McDonald Screening Fund, Calon Hearts is able to offer fully funded heart screening sessions for those aged 15½ to 26. These include an electrocardiogram (ECG) and consultation with a cardiologist.
For those aged 27 and over, a part-funded screening is available, which includes an ECG and echocardiogram (ECHO), alongside specialist feedback from a cardiologist. An ECG measures the heart’s electrical activity, while an echocardiogram provides detailed images of the heart’s structure and function.
The tests are quick, simple and painless, and can detect underlying heart conditions early, often before any symptoms appear.
Sharon Owen, Charity and Fundraising Director at Calon Hearts, said:
“Too often, young lives are lost without any warning signs. Screening gives people the chance to understand their heart health and, where needed, take action early. It’s quick, accessible and it can genuinely save lives.”
Calon Hearts is encouraging people to book onto an upcoming session for themselves or a loved one, particularly teenagers, those with a family history of heart problems, or anyone seeking peace of mind.
To book a screening appointment, visit:
calonhearts.org/screenings
