Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is a condition in which the heart stops abruptly, without warning. It is usually caused by ventricular fibrillation, an abnormality in the heart's electrical system.
In this state, the heart fails to pump blood to the body's vital organs.
Without appropriate care, death follows within minutes.
- Thousands of children, teens and young adults suffer sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) each year.
- SCA is two to three times more likely to occur in young athletes than their less active peers.
- SCA is the leading cause of death on school property with one student athlete falling victim to SCA every three to four days.
- An AED, when applied, will only deliver a shock if needed.
- Debfibrillation is the only proven treatment for SCA.
- The American Heart Association estimates that greater availability and use of AED's could save as many as 40,000 Americans each year.
- Be aware of your family health history.
- Pay attention to SCA signs & symptoms.
- Have an open dialogue and discuss health concerns with doctors and coaches.
- Be Prepared - You can help save a life.
- Become trained in CPR and AED use.
- Find out if your child's school, sporting events and practices are equipped with an AED and trained staff.
- Get your child screened at least once every two years
Warning signs may be present in youth, and all will benefit from knowing these warning signs: