About SCA

The Condition

Almost 400,000 people in the U.S. suffer sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) each year, yet less than 10% survive.
SCA occurs when the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating.
At any one time, an estimated 20% of the U.S. population congregates on school grounds, increasing the likelihood of school-based cardiac emergencies.
In children and adolescents, the causes of SCA are varied and include heart conditions that result from abnormal heart structure or function, primarily electrical abnormalities, and outside factors such as a sudden blow to the chest or drug use.
Every three days a young competitive athlete dies of SCA in the U.S.
A victim of sudden cardiac arrest will often complain of feeling “faint” or dizzy, usually during or just after exercise. They will rapidly become unconscious and may gasp for breath for a short time.

Victims of SCA can be brought back to life by providing chest compressions and early defibrillation with an automated external defibrillator (AED).
Every second counts. When SCA occurs, chest compressions and the use of an AED need to start immediately.
Survival rates decrease by 10% with each minute of delay.
There is a 5- to 6-minute window before death or irreparable brain damage occurs.
The AED can only help and will only deliver a shock if it is needed.
The AED is very easy to use. Just turn it on and follow the voice prompts.