Heart disease is a leading cause of death globally, and sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is one of the leading causes of death from heart disease. The intensity of physical activity, especially in competitive sports, can increase the risk of SCA. In order to minimize the risk of SCA and its consequences, it is important to understand the relationship between rigorous sports activity and SCA.
SCA occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating, which can lead to death within minutes if not treated immediately. This can happen to anyone, including athletes who engage in high-intensity physical activity. Studies have shown that the risk of SCA is higher in athletes compared to non-athletes. This is because intense physical activity can cause stress on the heart and increase the risk of heart disease.
Athletes are not the only ones at risk of SCA, however. Anyone who engages in high-intensity physical activity, such as running marathons or participating in extreme sports, is at risk. This is why it is important for everyone to be aware of the signs and symptoms of SCA, and to have access to life-saving equipment such as an Automated External Defibrillator (AED).
What is AED?
An AED is a portable device that can be used to deliver an electric shock to the heart in order to restore its normal rhythm. AEDs are designed for use by laypersons and are easy to operate, even for those without medical training. They are available in public places, such as airports, schools, and sports facilities, and can also be purchased for personal use.
In the event of SCA, time is of the essence. The longer a person goes without treatment, the more likely they are to suffer permanent damage to their organs and brain, or even death. An AED can provide life-saving treatment within minutes of SCA, which is why they are so important.
When an AED is used within the first few minutes of SCA, it can greatly increase a person's chances of survival. The electric shock delivered by an AED can help restore the heart's normal rhythm, which can prevent further damage to the heart and other organs. In addition, using an AED can also help prevent brain damage, which can occur when the brain is without oxygen for too long.
The use of AEDs is not just important for athletes, but for anyone who engages in high-intensity physical activity. Whether you are participating in a marathon, martial arts, football, or just a pick-up game of basketball, it is important to have access to an AED in case of an emergency.
AEDs can also be used in non-athletic settings, such as in the workplace or at home. In fact based on PERKI/Indonesian Heart Association – Perhimpunan Dokter Spesialis Kardiovaskular Indonesia data, it is estimated that more than 350,000 people in the Indonesia suffer from SCA outside of a hospital each year. Having an AED available in these settings can help save lives and minimize the risk of permanent damage to the heart and other organs.
Whether you are an athlete or just engage in high-intensity physical activity, it is important to know the signs and symptoms of SCA and to have access to an AED in case of an emergency. By being prepared and having access to an AED, you can help save lives and minimize the risk of permanent damage to the heart and other organs.
Get your Life Saving Equipment Now
Need an AED for your events? PT. Kurnia Teknologi Indonesia is authorized by ZOLL as a distributor of the AED Plus device, ensuring that the product is genuine and meets the high standards set by the manufacturer. With the growing demand for advanced medical equipment in the public safety sector, PT. Kurnia Teknologi Indonesia is well-positioned to meet the needs of its customers.