Community Heart Screenings
HEART SCREENINGS
A heart screening is a focused, preventive evaluation that looks closely at the structure and function of the heart. Unlike a routine physical or sports physical—which typically relies on a brief medical history and a stethoscope exam—a heart screening uses tools such as a detailed questionnaire and an electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) to identify potential structural or rhythm-related abnormalities. These screenings are designed to detect conditions that may not show symptoms but can increase the risk of sudden cardiac arrest, providing individuals with early information to seek follow-up care if needed.
Sudden cardiac arrest is a serious and widespread public health issue. Each year, hundreds of thousands of people in the United States experience a sudden cardiac arrest, and on average, nearly 1,000 lives are lost every day when the heart unexpectedly stops. Survival often depends on early detection, awareness, and timely intervention—long before an emergency ever occurs.
While sudden cardiac arrest is more common in older adults, it can and does affect young people. An estimated 1 in 300 youths has an undiagnosed heart condition that increases their risk, even if they appear healthy, feel well, and have passed a routine or sports physical.
Community Heart Screening Events
At IE Project Heart, we believe deeply in the power of prevention and early detection to save lives. Many cases of sudden cardiac death are preventable when heart conditions are identified early. That belief is why we offer free youth heart screenings for individuals living in the Inland Empire between the ages of 12 and 35, ensuring access to this vital preventive care regardless of circumstance.
We strongly encourage all young athletes to be screened. While physical activity offers countless benefits, it can also place additional strain on an undiagnosed heart condition. In fact, sudden cardiac arrest remains the leading cause of exercise-related death among young competitive athletes, responsible for nearly three-quarters of fatalities that occur during sports or physical exertion in this age group. Too often, these events occur without warning—to athletes who appear healthy, train regularly, and have been cleared through standard physical exams.
By participating in a heart screening, young people and their families gain access to a non-invasive evaluation of heart health and the opportunity to act on information early. If a potential concern is identified, participants receive appropriate follow-up testing and consultation with a cardiologist at no cost. These screenings are designed to be supportive, informative, and proactive—turning uncertainty into awareness, and awareness into prevention.
Upcoming Screening
Details:
- Location: Poly High School
- Address: 5450 Victoria Ave., Riverside, CA 92506
- Day: February 28th, 2026
- Time: 9am – 12pm
Eligibility:
- Must be between the ages of 12-35 years old
Registration:
- Pre-register using this link