Sudden cardiac arrest represents a grave medical crisis claiming nearly 5 to 10 lakh lives each year in India, representing almost 10% of all deaths. While sudden cardiac arrest can occur in people of all ages, it predominantly occurs in adults, particularly in people with underlying cardiac disease. Although sudden cardiac arrest can occur without prior symptoms, more than 50% of individuals who succumb to sudden cardiac arrest experience cardiac symptoms in the prior 24 hours. Common symptoms include chest pain, unusual shortness of breath or fatigue, palpitations, dizziness or loss of consciousness, excessive sweating, and restlessness.
One of the most important risk factors for sudden cardiac arrest is a ‘weak’ heart, medically referred to as LV systolic dysfunction. Other comorbidities that contribute to an increased risk of sudden cardiac arrest include high blood pressure, uncontrolled blood sugar, high blood cholesterol, cigarette smoking, obesity, or an inactive lifestyle.
