In an emergency, every second counts. CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, can double or even triple a person’s chances of survival after sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). However, recent studies reveal a shocking disparity: women are less likely than men to receive CPR from bystanders. This discrepancy could mean the difference between life and death.
At Emergency and Safety Trainers, LLC, we are passionate about empowering people to take action during emergencies, and understanding the barriers to helping women is a crucial step in saving more lives. Here’s why this gap exists—and how you can be part of the solution.
The Alarming Statistics
A study published in the European Heart Journal found that women experiencing out-of-hospital cardiac arrest are 28% less likely than men to receive bystander CPR. Another study presented at the American Heart Association’s Resuscitation Science Symposium revealed that only 39% of women experiencing cardiac arrest in public received CPR, compared to 45% of men. This discrepancy contributes to women having lower survival rates from cardiac arrest than men.
What’s Behind the CPR Gap?
- Fear of Causing Harm or Being Accused of Impropriety
Many bystanders hesitate to perform CPR on women because they fear accusations of inappropriate contact or worry about hurting the person, particularly due to concerns about touching the chest. Unfortunately, these fears are based on misconceptions; CPR must be performed on the chest, regardless of the person’s gender. - Lack of Representation in CPR Training
CPR mannequins are predominantly modeled on male anatomy. This lack of realistic training can make individuals less confident in performing CPR on women, leading to hesitation in real emergencies. - Assumptions About Women’s Health
Cardiac arrest is often incorrectly associated with men. Many people fail to recognize the signs of cardiac arrest in women, which can differ from men’s symptoms. This contributes to delays in action and a reduced likelihood of intervention.
The Solution: Education and Empowerment
Knowledge is the antidote to hesitation. CPR training builds confidence and eliminates myths, ensuring that bystanders act decisively regardless of the person’s gender. At Emergency and Safety Trainers, LLC, our instructors—real-world first responders—provide comprehensive CPR and emergency response training that tackles these barriers head-on.
- Hands-On Practice with Inclusive Tools
We use advanced training mannequins that represent diverse body types, so trainees are comfortable and confident performing CPR on anyone. - Scenario-Based Learning
Our courses simulate real-world emergencies, including situations involving women, to prepare trainees for any scenario. - Breaking Down Barriers
We address common fears and misconceptions during training, providing clear guidance on appropriate technique and legal protections, such as Good Samaritan laws, that shield rescuers from liability.
Why You Should Get Trained Today
The difference between life and death could be you. By learning CPR, you gain the skills and confidence to act decisively, saving lives without hesitation. Women deserve the same chance at survival as men—and you can be the person who ensures they get it.
Sign up for a CPR course with Emergency and Safety Trainers, LLC today. Our expert instructors are here to equip you with the tools to act when it matters most. Together, we can close the CPR gender gap and save more lives.
Take the First Step
Don’t wait for an emergency to learn how to save a life. Empower yourself with the knowledge to make a difference. Visit our website or call 314-596-2497 to book an individual session or group session for your organization. Let’s make sure no one hesitates to help—because every life is worth saving.
Sources:
- American Heart Association. (2022). “Women Less Likely to Receive Bystander CPR.”
- European Heart Journal. (2021). “Gender Disparities in Bystander Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation.”
- Perkins, G.D., et al. (2015). “The Importance of CPR Training in Overcoming Hesitation in Emergencies.” Resuscitation.
Together, we can save lives. Join us.