Dear Editor,

I wish to use this medium to advocate for the inclusion of mandatory cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training in high school curricula.

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a leading cause of death worldwide, and survival often depends on the immediate response of bystanders. Teaching CPR to high school students could significantly improve survival rates, save lives, and foster a culture of readiness and civic responsibility.

A recent tragic death of the nurse who suffered sudden cardiac arrest while shopping in a retail store underscores the urgency of this issue. No one present was equipped to perform CPR, highlighting the critical need for more widespread training. Similarly, fatal cardiac arrest incidents among high school athletes, often occurring during practices or games, have shown that immediate intervention is crucial to improving outcomes.

Countries such as England, Sweden, Denmark, China, and Norway have already mandated CPR training in schools with remarkable results. In Denmark, for instance, survival rates for out-of-hospital cardiac arrests have significantly improved since implementing school-based CPR programmes. These nations have set a powerful example of how empowering youth with life-saving skills can save lives.

In the United States, over 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside hospitals each year, with survival rates of less than 10 per cent. Research shows that immediate CPR can double or triple the chances of survival. Training high school students would create a generation of lifesavers who are ready to respond at home, school, or in their communities when emergencies strike.

CPR training is neither costly nor time-consuming. A single session as part of a health or physical education class is sufficient to teach the basics. Schools can partner with local organisations which possess the requisite experience, resources, and certified instructors to develop and deliver the content.

Beyond its life-saving potential, CPR training instills confidence and responsibility in young people. By making this training a standard part of the high school experience, we not only prepare students to save lives but also contribute to building stronger, safer communities.

The tragic death of the nurse and the ongoing risk to student-athletes serve as stark reminders of how vital it is to equip our youth with this critical skill. I urge policymakers, educators, and parents to support mandatory CPR training in high school as part of a wider strategy of strategically leveraging our vast education system in the national interest.

Handel Emery

handelemery@gmail.com