February is the annual Heart Month in the United States, Canada and United Kingdom. The message this year goes beyond awareness to acting.
In the US, the American Heart Association has released a powerful video urging people to learn CPR.
“When a heart stops, the clock starts,” the video says. It’s a reminder that heart health is about more than blood pressure and cholesterol – it’s also about being able to help when it’s most urgent.
“In that moment, heroes aren’t wearing uniforms,” the video says. “They’re not waiting for help to arrive. They are the help… In an emergency, the first responder is you.”
Four minutes without action can mean brain damage. Six minutes can mean it’s too late.
Experts are urging more people to take CPR training. You don’t have to be a medical expert to learn it.
The American Red Cross also encourages training in first aid and use of Automated External Defibrillators.
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death, but survival rates rise dramatically when someone nearby knows what to do and acts quickly.
Staying fit, building strength, and showing up for your workouts all support heart health. Learning CPR and other life-saving skills is another way to help yourself – and others.
Contact heart associations in your area for training opportunities.
Holly Kouvo is a personal trainer, functional aging specialist, senior fitness specialist, brain health trainer, writer, and speaker.