According to the researchers this number is nearly eight times more than what current figures show. They believe all these deaths could be attributable to a genetic heart defect. The primary characteristic of SADS is severe abnormalities in heart rhythm and a genetic heart defect is normally the reason behind the syndrome.
Where previous studies had put deaths due to SADS at 0.16 for every 100,000 deaths, the new study found the figure is actually around 1.34 deaths per 100,000. The scientists examined and analysed unexplained deaths registered by 117 of the UK?s 122 coroners from October 1997 to May 1999 before arriving at this conclusion.
They found SADS is linked to a genetic heart defect. Based on their findings, the researchers suggest family members should also be screened to ensure they are not at risk of SADS. They also found that only a third of the cases had been correctly identified by autopsy.
Upon adding all unexplained causes of deaths in national records that might actually have been due to SADS, the researchers found a significant difference in the death rate. Calculations showed the proportion could be as high as 1.34 deaths per 100,000. This figure is nearly eight times higher than earlier estimates and comes to around 500 deaths ever year.
In the opinion of the researchers, misclassification of deaths is causing under-reporting of SADS. In many instances families also don?t agree to extensive cardiac examination. The study also found certain deaths were on account of heart attack or other causes like epilepsy and drowning.
Ellen Mason, a British Heart Foundation heart nurse said, ?Clearer ways to identify possible victims of SADS are vital.?
?If a person dies from SADS, specialist centers can offer genetic screening to their bereaved families. Monitoring people who could be at risk of SADS and giving them specialist treatment may prevent further tragic deaths,? she added.