ROBERT WOOD JOHNSON UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL SOMERSET HOLDS FREE HEART AND CONCUSSION SCREENINGS FOR YOUNG ATHLETES ON JAN. 31

Cardiac and concussion screenings for young athletes will be held on Saturday, Jan. 31 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset, 110 Rehill Ave., Somerville.

The cardiac screening is free and is targeted for athletes ages 14 to 18. The screening will look for major abnormalities known to cause sudden cardiac death, which affects an average of 1 in 100,000 student athletes nationwide each year. Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset cardiologists, nurses and technicians will conduct the evaluation, which includes a cardiovascular history and physical exam; blood pressure screening; body metrics; an electrocardiogram; and an echocardiogram, if indicated. Results will be given to students to share with their personal physicians.

An ImPACT baseline concussion test will also be offered for ages 11 to 18 for a $20 fee. This test is a noninvasive computerized exam that provides useful information for evaluation and rehabilitation of the young athlete in the event of a future concussion.

A parent or guardian must accompany each student. Appointments are required by calling 908-685-2414.