Common Myths about Cardiac Arrest
In recognition of American Heart Month this February, the Lancaster General Health Heart Institute would like to make
you aware of the facts concerning heart disease.
Myth: Cardiac arrest is a rare medical emergency, so I don’t think I should be concerned about having
to deal with it.
Cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 cause of death and annually kills more Americans than the next seven leading
causes of death combined, including cancer, accidents, pneumonia, influenza, AIDS, diabetes and suicides.
Heart attack is one of the primary causes of cardiac arrest. Each day more than 95 percent of Americans who
suffer sudden cardiac arrest die before reaching the hospital. This equates to about 700 deaths each day or
250,000 deaths annually. The survival rate could be increased if more people were aware of the following:
- Know the warning signs of heart attack and cardiac arrest and make sure that your family and loved ones
know them as well. Seek medical attention immediately – don’t wait.
- Know CPR and be ready to give it until medical help arrives.
These are the important steps in the cardiac arrest chain of survival. Be a Heartsaver! Know the warning signs,
call 9-1-1 and give CPR.