SIOUX FALLS, NOVEMBER 29, 2022 - The American Heart Association is calling on South Dakotans to “Be the Beat” and learn CPR to save lives through its iconic Sioux Falls Go Red for Women Event and American Heart Month activities in February.
According to the American Heart Association, about 90 percent of people who suffer out-of-hospital cardiac arrests die. If you are called on to give CPR in an emergency, you will most likely be trying to save the life of someone you love: a spouse, a parent or a friend. This February during American Heart Month, the American Heart Association sheds light on the importance of knowing Hands-Only CPR. This year’s heart month theme, “Be the Beat,” urges people to be the beat it takes to keep someone alive by learning the two simple steps it takes to save a life.
- More than 350,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur in the United States each year, with about 70% happening in homes
- CPR, especially if performed immediately, can double or triple a cardiac arrest victim’s chance of survival
- Women are less likely to receive Hands-Only CPR because people fear accusations of inappropriate touching, sexual assault, or injuring the person.
- Hands-Only CPR involves two simple steps and anyone can learn it from a 60-second video available at heart.org/handsonlycpr.
- Step 1: If a teen or adult in your home suddenly collapses, call 911 immediately.
- Step 2: Place one hand on top of the other as shown in the video and push hard and fast on the victim’s chest.
The highlight of American Heart Month in Sioux Falls will be the Go Red for Women event on February 3, which is also National Wear Red Day. This signature event which will be held from 6-9 p.m. at The District will feature a social, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and dessert. A short program will honor inspiring survivor stories and information to help women reduce their risk of heart disease and stroke, including Hands-Only CPR training for all attendees.
Since 2004, Go Red for Women has had a profound impact on women’s health. As the trusted, passionate, and relevant force to eradicate heart disease and stroke, through the Go Red for Women movement, the American Heart Association remains steadfast and committed to meeting the comprehensive health needs of women - at every life stage.
The Go Red for Women Event is designed to raise awareness about cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death for women in the United States, as well as generate funds for lifesaving cardiovascular research for women.
Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health and the Sioux Falls event is locally sponsored by First Premier Bank/PREMIER Bankcard, Lewis Drug, Vern Eide, Dakota Vascular, South Dakota Beef Industry Council, Voyage Federal Credit Union, The Sampson House, Delta Dental, Dakota News Now, Argus Leader Media, Results Radio, Midco, and Vision Video. For more information and to register to attend the Go Red for Women Event, visit www.heart.org/SiouxFallsGoRed.
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About Go Red for Women®
The American Heart Association’s signature initiative, Go Red for Women®, is a comprehensive platform designed to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women globally. While nearly 80 percent of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, claiming the lives of 1 in 3 women. For 18 years, Go Red for Women has encouraged awareness. The movement harnesses the energy, passion and power of women to band together and collectively wipe out heart disease. It challenges them to know their risk for heart disease and take action to reduce their personal risk. It also gives them tools they need to lead a heart healthy life. The Go Red for Women movement is nationally sponsored by CVS Health, with additional support from national cause supporters. For more information, please visit GoRedforWomen.org or call 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721).
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is devoted to saving people from heart disease and stroke – the two leading causes of death in the world. We team with millions of volunteers to fund innovative research, fight for stronger public health policies and provide lifesaving tools and information to prevent and treat these diseases. The Dallas-based association is the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-800-AHA-USA1, visit heart.org or call any of our offices around the country. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
For Media Inquiries:
Chrissy Meyer, Region Senior Marketing Communications Director: 605-360-2542; Chrissy.Meyer@Heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org