Marc Vivien-Foe died suddenly while playing for his country

Campaigners say the condition claims the lives of around eight apparently healthy people each week.

Footballer Marc Vivien-Foe collapsed and died from the condition while playing for Cameroon last year.

Labour MP Dari Taylor is introducing a private members Bill in the Commons to try to force the government to set up a national screening programme.

The move is backed by the charity Cardiac Risk in the Young.

It wants all young people with a family history of sudden, unexplained deaths to be tested for heart defects.

It could affect anyone Alison Cox, Cardiac Risk in the Young

"Sudden death in young people can no longer be ignored by health professionals or the government," said Alison Cox, the charity's chief executive.

"It could affect anyone, that's why we need to improve access to screening so that people with cause for concern can take steps to prevent it from striking them or their family."

Ms Taylor said ministers appeared to be receptive to calls for young people to be screened for the condition.

"This Bill has forced the Department of Health to seriously consider the problem of cardiac death in the young for the first time and the Public Health Minister Melanie Johnson has been very receptive."

A spokesman for the Department of Health said GPs already look out for signs of sudden adult death.

GPs 'alert'

"GPs' current medical training already covers signs and symptoms of heart conditions and heart function problems.

"It is standard practice for doctors to invite patients exhibiting signs and symptoms which could lead to sudden death for cardiovascular screening.

"If diagnosis is made of a condition which is known to have a genetic component, first-degree relatives are also invited for screening where appropriate."

CRY is setting up six clinics across the country to offer screening to young people who believe they may be at risk of sudden adult death.

The clinics will be based at the Olympic Medical Institute, Colchester Hospital, Leeds Nuffield Hospital, Ultrasound Imaging Edinburgh, RJAH Hospital Oswestry and Sandhurst Group Medical Practice.