BMS launches Could It Be HCM? campaign to increase awareness of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Could It Be HCM? encourages those experiencing possible signs and symptoms of HCM to talk to their doctor about what they’re feeling and ask if they should see a cardiologist.

The reported prevalence of HCM ranges from 1 in 200 to 1 in 500 people in the general population. However, only about 100,000 people in the U.S. have been diagnosed with HCM, suggesting that approximately 85 percent may remain undiagnosed. HCM is also the most common inherited heart condition and can be passed down within families. HCM can be a challenge for healthcare providers to diagnose because it can be asymptomatic and its symptoms, which can include shortness of breath, unexplained tiredness, chest pain, rapid heartbeat and fainting, among others, can be similar to those of other conditions, such as anxiety, asthma, heart failure, coronary heart disease and atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat). Only a healthcare provider can determine whether these symptoms indicate HCM or another condition.

“Early diagnosis of HCM is critical because a delayed or missed diagnosis may put a patient’s health at greater risk,” said Michael J. Ackerman, M.D., Ph.D., Genetic Cardiologist and Director of the Windland Smith Rice Genetic Heart Rhythm Clinic at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. “HCM is a lifelong heart condition that can be debilitating, reducing physical functioning and overall well-being. It can get worse over time and have serious complications. That’s why awareness of this disease is so critical.”

At the center of the campaign is CouldItBeHCM.com, which provides important information about HCM and support tools for people experiencing unexplained symptoms. Downloadable resources available at CouldItBeHCM.com include a symptom guide and a discussion guide to help someone experiencing unexplained symptoms have a productive conversation with their physician.