Causes of sudden death

In 90% of adult victims of sudden cardiac death, two or more major coronary arteries are narrowed due to accumulation of fat.

They are scars from a previous heart attack in two thirds of the victims.

When sudden death occurs in young adults, other heart abnormalities are the most likely causes. Adrenaline released during intense physical or sporting activity often acts as a trigger of sudden death when these abnormalities are present.

Under certain conditions, various heart medications and other drugs and the abuse of illegal drugs, can cause irregular heart rhythms that cause sudden death.