A new study from the University of Missouri School of Medicine reveals that where a child lives may significantly impact their survival chances following a cardiac arrest.
The research illustrates that social determinants of health—such as socioeconomic status, education levels, and community racial composition—play a crucial role in the rates of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and automated external defibrillator (AED) use, ultimately influencing survival outcomes.
Impact of Educational Resources
Dr. Mary Bernardin, an emergency pediatric physician and the study’s lead author, pointed out that communities with better educational resources often see higher rates of CPR administration and AED usage, leading to improved survival rates for affected children.
While prior studies have established links between social factors and the treatment of adults in cardiac arrest, there has been limited focus on pediatric cases, often due to small sample sizes.
This latest investigation stands out as the largest of its kind, encompassing over 21,000 instances across all 54 states and territories in the U.S.
Findings on Pediatric Cardiac Arrest
The research found that bystanders initiated CPR in roughly 62% of pediatric cardiac arrest cases, and AEDs were employed about 23% of the time.
Alarmingly, the overall survival rate was only 21%.
The findings underscored that the poorest outcomes were concentrated in communities with lower education levels, higher poverty rates, and significant racial or ethnic minority populations.
One striking revelation was that traumatic incidents lead to the majority of pediatric cardiac arrests. Dr. Bernardin stressed the importance of addressing firearm injuries—currently the top cause of death among children in the U.S.—when discussing factors influencing survival.
Community-Based Initiatives and Education
She noted that children from racial and ethnic minority groups are disproportionately affected by gun-related injuries.
To combat this growing concern, Dr. Bernardin advocates for community-based initiatives aimed at preventing gun violence, which could significantly bolster the survival rates of vulnerable children.
Moreover, establishing educational programs that emphasize CPR and AED training can empower those who are most likely to witness pediatric cardiac arrests.
Targeted education efforts could be vital in enhancing a community’s readiness to respond effectively.
Dr. Mary Bernardin holds positions as an assistant professor in emergency medicine and pediatrics at MU School of Medicine and works as a pediatric emergency medicine physician at MU Health Care.
Additionally, she plays significant leadership roles in Emergency Medical Services for Children and Pediatric Emergency Medicine Education, highlighting her commitment to improving pediatric care.
Source: ScienceDaily