Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart malfunctions and stops beating unexpectedly. This common condition can be described as an “electrical problem” within your body. This means that the arrest “triggered an electrical malfunction in the heart [causing an irregular heartbeat classified as an arrhythmia] (American Heart Association),” which could restrict blood flow. Without the heart’s ability to pump blood to the brain, lungs, and other vital organs; in seconds, a person can become unresponsive and if not treated immediately–the person will die. Unfortunately, cardiac arrest is the leading cause of death in the United States. “Cardiac arrest affects thousands of people annually with about three-quarters of them occurring at home. In one year alone, 475,000 Americans die from a cardiac arrest and more than 350,000 of them occur outside of the hospital each year where 90 percent of them die” (American Heart Association). In regards to age group, “The average age of sudden cardiac arrest is 60”, [but as mentioned earlier, because cardiac arrest is the leading cause of death in the United States; anyone can experience it regardless of age or someone who has no sign of heart disease] (Melrose-Wakefield Healthcare).” There are many factors that can put individuals at a higher risk for having a cardiac arrest, which includes:

• Smoking

• High blood pressure

• Poor diet 

• Lack of exercise 

• High cholesterol

• Obesity and diabetes.

However, prevention is achievable. Ways to reduce your chances can include:

• Regular appointments for heart screenings

• Staying active

• Losing weight

• Decreasing stress levels through mediation or other leisurely activities

• Quitting drinking and smoking.