The American Heart Association is urging families to prioritize health and safety this summer by implementing four key strategies to reduce cardiac emergency risks. With 350,000 people experiencing out-of-hospital cardiac arrests annually and only 10% surviving, the organization highlights the critical importance of preparation and knowledge.
Children are particularly vulnerable, with over 23,000 experiencing cardiac arrest each year. Nearly 40% of these incidents are sports-related, and approximately 20% occur in infants. The Association emphasizes that immediate CPR can double or triple survival chances, yet less than half of victims receive timely assistance.
The recommended strategies include learning CPR, adopting a family health goal, planning medical preparations, and community engagement. By focusing on the Life's Essential 8™ health measures, families can improve cardiovascular health through healthy eating, physical activity, tobacco cessation, proper sleep, weight management, and monitoring cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure.
Nancy Brown, the organization's CEO, stressed the importance of preparedness during summer months when typical support networks are disrupted. With children out of school and employees on vacation, individuals must be equipped to handle potential emergencies.
Walgreens is supporting the initiative as a national sponsor of the Nation of Lifesavers program, aiming to transform bystanders into potential lifesavers during cardiac emergencies. The collaboration underscores a broader mission to create a more responsive and prepared community.
