American Heart Association Urges LGBTQ+ Communities to Learn Hands-Only CPR During Pride Month
The American Heart Association is encouraging LGBTQ+ communities and allies to learn Hands-Only CPR this June, citing disparities in heart health and the potential to save lives.
The American Heart Association is using Pride Month to highlight the importance of CPR training among LGBTQ+ communities, emphasizing that immediate action can double or triple survival rates from cardiac arrest. According to the Association, more than 350,000 people in the U.S. experience out-of-hospital cardiac arrest each year, and 90% do not survive, often because bystanders hesitate or lack training.
“More than 20 million LGBTQ+ adults in the U.S. face higher risks to their heart health, influenced by both clinical and social drivers of health,” said Stacey E. Rosen, M.D., volunteer president of the American Heart Association. “By learning Hands-Only CPR and encouraging others to do the same, communities can help close gaps in emergency response and ensure more people are prepared to act when it matters most.”
The Association’s research shows that stigma, discrimination and chronic stress can influence long-term cardiovascular health. Its scientific statement on cardiovascular health for transgender and gender diverse people calls for improved training, systems and culturally responsive care. The Pride With Heart initiative provides resources to support the LGBTQ+ community.
Hands-Only CPR is simple: call 911 and push hard and fast in the center of the chest at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute until help arrives. The Association provides resources and course finder tools to learn the skill.
Year-round, the Association funds research, advocates for public health, and shares lifesaving resources. Visit the Pride With Heart website for LGBTQ+ health news and resources.