Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is a leading cause of death in the UK. Sudden cardiac arrest does not discriminate, it can affect anyone at any given time or place.

CPR and a shock from a defibrillator is the only definitive treatment for SCA which is why we want to see an increase in the accessibility of these life-saving devices along with a greater knowledge of CPR to ensure the best chance of survival.

There are certain risk factors that can increase the chances of suffering an SCA such as having high blood pressure or diabetes.

The risk for sudden cardiac death is 12 percent higher among men who have two or more risk factors.

Unfortunately, studies have found males to be two to three times more likely to experience sudden cardiac arrest than women are. Between 60% and 89% of sudden cardiac deaths will occur in men.

One in nine men will experience sudden cardiac death, most before age 70. This is in comparison to about one in 30 women who are likely to experience SCA.

 

Prevention

Although SCA does not discriminate, by controlling cardiovascular risk factors where possible, reduces the risk of sudden cardiac arrest. Controlling high blood pressure is one example of eliminating a risk factor to reduce the chance of experiencing SCA.

Steps to take that reduce the risk include regular check-ups and screening for heart disease. Living a healthy lifestyle by ensuring you implement the following approaches into your life is the best approach to minimising your risk:

  • Don’t smoke, drink alcohol only in moderation
  • Plan a nutritious and balanced diet
  • Stay physically active

If you are particularly vulnerable to an unhealthy heart, it may be recommended that you take the appropriate steps to manage this such as taking medication for high cholesterol or carefully monitoring diabetes.

In some cases, people who have a known high risk of sudden cardiac arrest that may be due to a heart condition, it may be recommended for them to take anti-arrhythmic drugs or an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) as primary prevention.

 

Stay Heart Safe

Whilst you can take precautionary measures to avoid a sudden cardiac arrest, this does not mean that you are immune from experiencing SCA.

defibshop are committed to equipping everyone with the skills and knowledge to save a life. Speak to one of our Product Specialists on 0161 776 7422 or fill out our Contact Form