What Increases Your Risk?

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is usually caused by a gene mutation that is passed down in families.

If you have a parent with the condition, you have a 50/50 chance of inheriting it. In the same way, if you have it, each of your children has a 50/50 chance of being born with this mutation.

Because it’s a genetic condition, it’s a good idea to talk with your health care team about your family history. For example, have any family members—especially parents or siblings—died suddenly without a clear cause?

Also, ask about genetic counseling and screening. Screening can involve genetic testing or imaging tests or both.