Sudden Cardiac Death: Mechanisms, Risk, and Prevention

Sudden Cardiac Death (SCD) poses a critical public health challenge, accounting for approximately 15–20% of all deaths worldwide. Characterized by the abrupt loss of heart function, breathing, and consciousness - often occurring within an hour of symptom onset - SCD affects individuals of all ages, including seemingly healthy young adults and athletes. The underlying causes are multifactorial, involving complex interactions between genetic predispositions, structural cardiac abnormalities, and electrophysiological disturbances. Despite ongoing advances in cardiology, a complete understanding of SCD’s mechanisms remains elusive, and existing preventive measures are often insufficient to significantly lower morbidity and mortality rates.

The primary aim of this Research Topic is to advance knowledge of the multifaceted mechanisms driving SCD and to develop effective strategies for its early detection and prevention. By promoting a multidisciplinary perspective, this Topic seeks to enhance risk assessment protocols, improve community and clinical emergency response systems, and contribute to a substantial reduction in SCD incidence across diverse populations.

We invite researchers to submit original research articles, comprehensive reviews, case studies, and clinical trials spanning (but not limited to) the following areas:
• Epidemiological Studies: Evaluation of risk factors, incidence trends, and demographic variability in SCD across populations.
• Genetic Research: Discovery and analysis of genetic variants and hereditary patterns contributing to SCD vulnerability.
• Pathophysiology: Investigation of biological processes, including myocardial ischemia, structural abnormalities, and electrical disturbances precipitating SCD.
• Innovative Detection Methods: Novel biomarkers, imaging modalities, and predictive tools aimed at early risk identification and intervention.
• Preventive Strategies: Assessment of lifestyle interventions, pharmaceutical approaches, and device therapies such as implantable cardioverter-defibrillators.
• Emergency Response Systems: Approaches to enhance community preparedness, including public defibrillator access, CPR training programs, and rapid response initiatives.

Researchers are encouraged to submit manuscripts that align with the scope above. Submissions should aim to:
• Provide a detailed analysis of epidemiological data to uncover new insights into SCD risk factors.
• Present findings from genetic studies that shed light on hereditary patterns and molecular mechanisms.
• Describe innovative methodologies for early detection and risk assessment.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of various preventive measures and emergency response techniques.
• Address public health implications and propose policy recommendations based on research findings.

All submissions will undergo rigorous peer review to ensure the highest standards of scientific quality and impact. By contributing to this Research Topic, authors will play a critical role in advancing our understanding of SCD and shaping future preventive measures and interventions.