Because the conditions that cause sudden arrhythmic death syndrome (SADS) can be inherited it is important that, if you are a blood relative in the immediate family of someone who has died of SADS, you are evaluated for signs of these diseases, particularly the ion channelopathies. There may also have been other sudden or suspicious deaths in your family, including cot deaths, suggesting that there may be an underlying inheritable condition. Below, we explain what is involved in the evaluation and describe the tests you may need to have. Continue reading →