The American Heart Association, through its Pride With Heart initiative, is calling on LGBTQ+ communities and allies to learn Hands-Only CPR this June during Pride Month. The organization highlights that more than 350,000 people in the U.S. experience out-of-hospital cardiac arrest each year, and 9 out of 10 do not survive, often because help does not arrive quickly enough. Immediate CPR can double or triple a person's chance of survival, yet many bystanders hesitate or lack the knowledge to act.
According to the Association's research, experiences related to stigma, discrimination, and chronic stress can influence long-term cardiovascular health, particularly for LGBTQ+ adults. A scientific statement on cardiovascular health for transgender and gender diverse people also calls for improved training and culturally responsive care. Stacey E. Rosen, M.D., FAHA, volunteer president of the American Heart Association, noted that more than 20 million LGBTQ+ adults in the U.S. face higher risks to their heart health due to both clinical and social drivers. “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,” she said.
Hands-Only CPR is easy to learn and remember, involving two simple steps: call 911 and push hard and fast in the center of the chest at a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute until help arrives. The Association provides resources to learn CPR at cpr.heart.org and find a CPR course near you at cpr.heart.org. More information about the Pride With Heart initiative is available at heart.org.
The American Heart Association, a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives, has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, the organization funds groundbreaking research, advocates for public health, and provides critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. Year-round, the Association stands with the LGBTQ+ community by funding innovative research, advocating for public health, and sharing lifesaving resources like CPR education and training.
