In the most deprived areas of England and Scotland, the nearest 24/7 accessible defibrillator is on average a round trip of over a mile, or 1.8km, according to research supported by the British Heart Foundation (BHF). The pioneering study—one of the biggest ever to look at defibrillator access—is published in the journal Heart and presented today at the European Society of Cardiology Congress in Amsterdam.
Mean street network distance to the nearest active automated external defibrillator , across postcodes within lower super output areas in England , Scotland and Wales. Credit:In the most deprived areas of England and Scotland, the nearest 24/7 accessible defibrillator is on average a round trip of over a mile, or 1.8km, according to research supported by the British Heart Foundation .
On average, a public access defibrillator is 726 meters away from the center of any given postcode along the road network across Great Britain. The findings come as the BHF reminds the public to call 999 immediately if they see someone having a cardiac arrest. Anyone can use a defibrillator and you don't need training. The device checks the heart rhythm and will only tell you to shock if it's needed. You can't shock someone accidentally.
Michael Bradfield, Director of Clinical and Service Development at Resuscitation Council UK, said,"It's vital that we address the inequalities that exist in terms of where 24/7 accessible defibrillators are located, because CPR along with defibrillation can significantly increase chances of survival following a cardiac arrest.
"Our Community Advocates do great work supporting people locally by helping them identify where their nearest devices are and equipping them with the confidence to use one in an emergency. But I'd urge everyone to keep themselves and loved ones safe by learning lifesaving skills, so you could help save a life one day."
The BHF and its partner organizations are encouraging anyone with a defibrillator to register it immediately so that the device is visible to ambulance services. This could potentially shorten the distance to your postcode's nearest defibrillator that's visible to
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Heart attack warning signs that can strike up to 24 hours earlierA cardiac arrest is the most deadly form of heart condition
Read more »
School staff to strike in 24 Scottish council areasThe Unison industrial action will affect schools and early learning centres across the country.
Read more »
Watch and live stream English Premier League soccer in the 2023-24 seasonAn all-you-need-to-know guide on how to watch the English Premier League in the USA
Read more »
Doctors warn of difference in cardiac arrest symptoms between men and womenThey can appear up to 24 hours before.
Read more »
Doctors warn of difference in cardiac arrest symptoms between men and womenThey can appear up to 24 hours before.
Read more »
Novak Djokovic is back for the 2023 US Open and there’s no ‘anger’Djokovic returns to New York with grand slam No 24 on his mind
Read more »