Introduction to a Tragic Event
A 20-year-old Cambridge University student, Clarissa Nicholls, collapsed while hiking in the south of France and died suddenly without showing any prior signs of illness. This incident has led to her family taking action to prevent similar unexpected tragedies from occurring in the future.
The Cause of Death
Clarissa was found to have arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM), a rare heart disease where the heart muscle is replaced by scar and fat tissue, leading to cardiac arrest. Despite being described as extremely active, fit, and healthy, she had no symptoms, making her death a shock to everyone who knew her.
The Risks of ACM
This type of heart disease often goes undiagnosed and can be worsened by strenuous exercise. It is believed to affect one in 250 people, making it a significant risk for young individuals. The lack of symptoms and the potential for routine checkups to prevent such incidents have prompted the Nicholls family and friends to launch a campaign to raise awareness and funds for heart screenings.
The Campaign for Heart Screenings
The campaign, which has raised over £100,000, enables young students in Cambridge to undergo routine heart checks through the charity CRY – Cardiac Risk in the Young. So far, over 400 students have been screened, with 42 requiring further testing. The campaign aims to prevent similar tragedies from occurring and has received support from Cambridge University.
The Importance of Heart Health
Research shows that most people’s heart health scores begin to decline by age 17. Lifestyle choices such as lack of exercise, smoking, poor diet, and excessive alcohol consumption contribute to poor heart health, especially in young people. It is essential to maintain good heart health from a young age, as childhood is a critical period for developing healthy habits.
The Deterioration of Heart Health
Many children are born healthy, but heart health benefits are often lost during childhood. Less than 5% of children in the US enjoy ideal cardiovascular health, highlighting the need for early intervention and education on maintaining good heart health. The Nicholls family’s campaign serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing heart health and taking preventive measures to avoid tragic events like Clarissa’s death.
