Premergency First Aid, CPR and AED Manual

5 Cardiovascular Emergencies, CPR and AED

Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease 80% of the risk factors noted, can be controlled or even eliminated out of the human lifestyle with proper nutrition and exercise. The remaining risk factors that cannot be controlled are age and heredity. However, more than 48,000 deaths occur each year in Canada. (StatsCan 2012). Without rapid and appropriate treatment, most of these cardiac arrests will result in death or permanent disability. First aiders can help reduce these numbers through early recognition, quick activation of 911, and for cardiac arrest, the proper use of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and an automated external defibrillator (AED).

29% of all deaths in Canada are from cardiovascular disease. Nine out of ten Canadians have at least one risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The majority of these deaths could be avoided by people living a healthier lifestyle. Risk factors for cardiovascular disease include: • smoking • high blood pressure • high blood cholesterol

• diabetes • alcohol • lack of regular exercise • obesity • heredity • age

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