Center for CardioGenetics
Montefiore-Einstein Center for CardioGenetics (MECC)
Genetic testing for families after the tragedy of SIDS and SUDS
When your child or loved one dies suddenly, you want answers.
"What caused this unexpected death?" "Are my other children at risk?" "How can I protect my family?"
Get answers to your questions about inherited SIDS and SUDS.
At Montefiore-Einstein Center for CardioGenetics, a program of The Children's Hospital at Montefiore, we can help.
When you come to the Montefiore-Einstein Center for CardioGenetics, a team of experts works with you to...
- Find out if genetics played a role in your child's SIDS or SUDS
- Identify or rule out SIDS and SUDS risks to your children or other family members
- Provide preventative medical care for at-risk children and family members
Want to make an appointment now? Contact us.
SIDS: #1 killer of US infants age 1 month to 1 year
In the US, more than 4,000 children and young people die each year from undiagnosed heart disturbances called arrhythmias.
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the term used when a child under one year old dies and complete medical investigation reveals no cause of death. SIDS is the leading killer of infants' age 1 month to 1 year in the US.
Want to learn more about SIDS? Get detailed information in our Health Library.
Sudden Unexpected Death Syndrome (SUDS) is the term used when a young person over one-year old dies and complete medical investigation reveals no cause of death.
Do genetics play a part in SIDS and SUDS?
Today scientists know that at least 1 out of every 3 SIDS and SUDS deaths involve a genetic disorder. But until recently families had little choice but to live burdened with fear.
Complete SIDS/SUDS testing and preventative care now available in New York
MECC provides comprehensive genetic testing and preventative care for families at risk for SIDS and SUDS.
All counseling and testing services are conveniently located under one roof in our child-friendly facility at CHAM.
Our one-stop services for your family include:
- Genetic counseling to explore your family's medical history
- Genetic testing of autopsy blood samples, in cooperation with the Office of the Medical Examiner of New York City
- Genetic testing of family members, when appropriate
- Complete physical exam
- Counsel and support from a trained social worker
- Assessment from an adult or children's cardiologist and a complete range of painless, noninvasive heart tests
- Consultation with adult or children's neurological and metabolic experts, when needed
- Complete confidentiality, MECC keeps your information private and uses it for medical purposes only
Solutions that help your family move forward without fear
After testing, your family meets with the MECC team to discuss a treatment plan that may include:
- Additional testing, if you or a family member carry genes associated with heart disorders
- Customized preventative treatment that may involve lifestyle change, medication or placement of a heart device
- Ongoing follow-up care
Remember your loved one and help the fight against SIDS and SUDS.
You never "get over" the loss of a child or beloved family member. But at MECC you can turn your grief into positive action, with your permission your family's information becomes part of a database that supports the latest SIDS and SUDS research.
MECC's goal is to eliminate SIDS and SUDS in your lifetime.
For confidential information or an appointment at MECC, call us today.
If you've lost a family member to SIDS, please call MECC's nurse practitioner, Esma Paljevic, at 718-741-2327.
If you've lost a family member to SUDS, please call MECC's administrative assistant, Tricia Elliot, at 718-741-2323.
Need directions to the Montefiore-Einstein Center for CardioGenetics at CHAM? Click here.
Like to learn more about CHAM? Take a virtual tour of our acclaimed child-centered facility.
