The
Cardiomyopathy
Association

The CMA is to launch a fundraising initiative to support a genetics testing service in the UK for families affected by cardiomyopathy.

As the disease is often inherited, the gene causing the problem can be found in some families.

The process is not easy as there are thought to be many genes responsible for the condition, but some have already been identified.

A genetics service for cardiomyoapthy is currently not generally available on the NHS in this country, which is of major concern for many families with the condition.

If the gene can be found in a family, other members of the family can find out if they have the gene through a simple blood test.  Just because someone has the gene does not mean they will develop the condition, but it means they will continue to need regular heart checks. But those found not to have the gene know they no longer need regular heart checks and they will not pass the condition on to their children.

At present some families are able to get gene testing as part of research programmes here and abroad. But the CMA wants more families to be able to benefit from it.