Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) have emerged as a leading cause of death in India, posing a significant public health challenge. Several factors contribute to this high prevalence, including early onset risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and obesity. Additionally, a sedentary lifestyle and the typical Asian phenotype play crucial roles in this alarming trend. Notably, Indians are experiencing cardiovascular diseases almost a decade earlier than their Western counterparts, often resulting in high morbidity and mortality rates.
Sudden Cardiac Arrest:
An Alarming Trend Amongst the Youth
Preventing Cardiac Arrest Mortality: The Role of CPR
A significant portion of cardiac arrest-related mortality can be prevented through increased awareness and education regarding cardio pulmonary resuscitation (CPR). CPR is a life-saving first aid technique that can be administered when someone experiences sudden cardiac arrest. Timely application of CPR can save up to 40% of lives in such critical situations.
The CALS Initiative: Spreading Awareness and Saving Lives
The Cardiological Society of India, in collaboration with SATS Academy (Society for Emergency Medicine in India), has launched the CPR as a Life Skill Initiative (CALS) to address the issue of SCD and promote basic CPR techniques. This initiative is further supported by Making India HeartStrong. CALS aims to provide comprehensive awareness about CPR, emphasizing the correct steps and techniques required to understand and perform CPR effectively, ultimately saving lives.
Learning CPR: Across Three Levels of Progression
CALS offers three levels of CPR learning, each tailored to cover specific topics, ranging from basic to advanced CPR techniques. Upon completion of each level, participants are awarded badges to signify their enhanced awareness of CPR.
Aiming to Reach Millions: A Nationwide Initiative
The primary objective of CALS is to train and raise awareness about CPR among more than 10 million Indians within the next year. This will be accomplished through a combination of physical training sessions and digital platforms, ensuring that individuals across the nation are equipped with life-saving CPR skills.
