A new screening clinic to test people most at risk from Sudden Adult Death Syndrome (SADS) was opened today in Dublin's Mater Hospital.
The Family Heart Screening Clinic aims to reduce the number of deaths resulting from SADS by providing free checks for immediate family members who have lost loved ones to the condition.
Experts estimate at least one young Irish person under 35 dies suddenly every week from heart diseases such as SADS or cardiomyopathy.
Most of those who die from SADS are active youngsters who report no symptoms before their fatal collapse.
The disease has claimed the lives of a number of high-profile sportsmen including Tyrone football captain Cormac McAnallen (22).
Dr Joseph Galvin, consultant cardiologist in the Mater Hospital, said although the unit was much-needed, it was important to keep raising awareness of the condition.
Up to 80 per cent of SADS deaths happen in the home, he said.
PA