Cardiologists said there are high chances of saving a patient — clinically dead and not breathing due to sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) — if cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), a basic life-saving technique, is given on time.
However, not many know the CPR rescue technique. An online survey released on Wednesday shows that 98 per cent of over one lakh people across the country is not aware of how to perform CPR when needed.
SCA is a major cause of death due to cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and 60 per cent of the people who suffer an SCA, succumb to it even before they reach hospital.
The survey, conducted by an online doctor consultation platform, lybrate, in 20 major Indian cities shows that less than 2 per cent of the participants agreed to be the technique, while a miniscule category said they have actually ‘performed’ it on someone in case of an emergency.
A sudden cardiac arrest occurs when the electrical conducting system of the heart fails and the heart beats irregularly and very fast. Soon after, the heart suddenly stops beating and blood flow to the brain stops. The person becomes unconscious and stops breathing normally. A cardiac arrest is not the same as heart attack, but may be caused by a heart attack.
“Indians are predisposed to heart conditions and even though cardiac-related conditions are taking a huge toll on human lives in the country, it is very sad that people are not aware about CPR or are trained to perform it. The survey is a wakeup call,” said Saurabh Arora, Founder and CEO, lybrate.
Heart Care Foundation of India’s KK Aggarwal, a renowned cardiologist, has been constantly writing to the Government to mandate CPR in the school curriculum, but in vain. “Every individual should know about CPR. life is precious after all. At least 40-60 brain dead patients out of 100 can be saved before medical help is provided,” he said.
Dr Usha Kiran, Professor and Head of Department of cardiac and anesthesia (AIIMS), said, “CPR is best for revival and is a first aid method. For best results, CPR must be performed within 10 minutes of a person being clinically dead. The earlier it is preformed, the higher the chances of reviving the person” she added.