In people at high risk of sudden cardiac death, research has shown the implantation of an ICD as a primary form of prevention to disrupt potentially life threatening episodes of arrhythmia by up to 49-foldTrusted Source. Doctors may also advise young people with genetic or congenital heart abnormalities that put them at increased risk of sudden cardiac death to adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle. This may include a heart-healthy diet, smoking cessation, and light physical activity. They will generally discourage intensive physical activity, although this depends on individual risk factors.
