The American Heart Association is using Pride Month to encourage LGBTQ+ communities and allies to learn Hands-Only CPR, a life-saving skill that can double or triple survival chances for cardiac arrest victims. The initiative, part of the Association's Pride With Heart program, addresses disparities in cardiovascular health among LGBTQ+ individuals, who face higher risks due to stigma, discrimination, and chronic stress.
According to the American Heart Association, more than 350,000 people in the U.S. experience out-of-hospital cardiac arrest each year, and 90% do not survive, often because bystanders hesitate or lack CPR training. Immediate CPR can significantly improve outcomes, yet many are unprepared to act.
"More than 20 million LGBTQ+ adults in the U.S. face higher risks to their heart health, influenced by both clinical and social drivers of health," said Stacey E. Rosen, M.D., FAHA, volunteer president of the American Heart Association. "By learning Hands-Only CPR and encouraging others to do the same, communities can help close gaps in emergency response and ensure more people are prepared to act when it matters most."
Hands-Only CPR involves two simple steps: call 911 and push hard and fast in the center of the chest at a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute until help arrives. The Association provides resources to learn this skill at heart.org/cpr and find courses at cpr.heart.org.
Research cited by the American Heart Association shows that discrimination contributes to poorer heart health for LGBTQ adults, and a scientific statement on cardiovascular health for transgender and gender diverse people calls for improved training and culturally responsive care. The Association's year-round efforts include funding research, advocating for public health, and sharing lifesaving resources.
The Pride With Heart initiative aims to empower communities and improve access to care. By learning CPR, individuals can make a critical difference in an emergency, potentially saving the life of someone they love.
