According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of South Africa, Cardiovascular:
- Disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in South Africa after HIV/ AIDS.
- More South Africans die of CVD than of all the cancers combined
- CVD is responsible for almost 1 in 6 deaths (17.3%) in South Africa
- 215 people die every day from heart disease or strokes
- Every hour in South Africa: 5 people have heart attacks, 10 people have strokes and of those events, 10 people will actually die from it.
- Earn Discovery Vitality points: 2500 for a period of 2 years.
CPR SAVES LIVES
While heart disease is on the rise, CPR can help save lives.
CPR helps keep blood and oxygen flowing and dramatically increases the chances of survival in those who suffer a cardiac arrest, Brain death occurs four to six minutes after the heart stops breathing.
CPR effectively keeps blood flowing and provides oxygen to the brain and other vital organs, giving the victim a better chance for full recovery Sadly, over 90% of people who suffer from a cardiac arrest outside of the hospital die.
However, when properly and promptly performed, CPR can dramatically improve person’s chance of survival until an ambulance arrives and more advanced tools can be used. We know that the chance of surviving a sudden cardiac arrest increases significantly, by more than double, when CPR is started early.
ANYONE CAN LEARN CPR
Anyone can learn CPR and everyone should.
In South Africa, CPR skills amongst the general population is very low. When people are asked why they would not give CPR, a very common answer is that they never received training and do not know how to.
For every minute that passes with no action being taken on a victim, the chances of survival decreases by 10% per minute. If CPR is given within the first two minutes of cardiac arrest, the chances of survival double. CPR classes will equip you with the tools and the confidence you need to transform yourself from the role of bystander to lifesaver.
CPR certification will give you the necessary training to make the right decisions in the event of a cardiac emergency.
THE LIFE YOU SAVE MAY BE THAT OF A LOVED ONE
The most common place for Cadiac Arrests to occur is at home. If you are called on to give CPR in an emergency, you will most likely be trying to save the life of someone you love: a child, a spouse, a parent or a friend.
Not only that, but many victims of sudden cardiac arrest appear healthy and may not have any known heart diseases or risk factors. Performing CPR promptly may save the life of someone you love.
YOU DON’T HAVE TO DO MOUTH-TO-MOUTH RESUSCITATION
Another reason people report they do not perform CPR is because of concerns performing mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
In 2010 the guidelines for performing CPR were changed, and they now say that those who do not feel comfortable, or who have not received formal training, should attempt hands-only CPR.
We advocate performing chest compressions even without breathing assistance. Hands-only CPR has been shown to be just as effective for many adults who experience sudden cardiac arrest.
PR CLASSES ARE FUN
By nature, CPR classes are hands-on and interactive.
Course participants will learn how to properly execute chest
compressions in a fun and supportive environment.
So take the challenge. If you don’t know CPR, learn CPR and gain the confidence in knowing that if you are ever needed, you too can save a life!
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