Are Our Teens Protected? A Growing Concern Over Cardiac Emergency Preparedness
A new national poll reveals a concerning gap in preparedness for teen cardiac emergencies, raising questions about the safety of young people both in schools and beyond. The University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health, conducted in August 2025, found that only half of parents are aware if their teen’s school even has an automated external defibrillator (AED) on site.
The Critical Window: Seconds Save Lives
Sudden cardiac arrest, while rare in young people, demands immediate action. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 2,000 young people under 25 die each year in the United States from sudden cardiac arrest. “Every second matters, and CPR and AED use are critical to survival,” explains Sarah Clark, M.P.H., co-director of the Mott Poll. The poll highlights that even when AEDs are available, a significant number of parents (around 60%) don’t know where they are located or sense confident school staff are adequately trained to use them.
Beyond the School Walls: A Community Issue
The concern extends beyond the school environment. Parents overwhelmingly support broader access to training, recognizing that cardiac emergencies can occur at any time, not just during school hours. Currently, only about one in five parents report their teen has CPR training, and even fewer (one in fifteen) have received AED training. This disparity underscores the necessitate for wider community-based initiatives.
Hesitancy and Fear: Barriers to Action
Despite a willingness to act, parents express concerns about teens responding to cardiac emergencies. Fears include emotional distress if the person doesn’t survive, feeling overwhelmed, legal ramifications, or simply making a mistake. Although, experts emphasize that “teens can save lives,” and with proper training and support, they can overcome these anxieties and provide crucial assistance.
The Role of Early Detection and Evaluation
While many parents (nearly 35%) believe all teens should be evaluated for heart disease, only about one in seven report their teen has actually undergone such an evaluation, often during a sports physical. Clark notes that a standard check-up may not be enough, as some heart conditions require more specialized testing, like an electrocardiogram (EKG), to be detected. Teens should be encouraged to report any symptoms like heart palpitations or dizziness to a medical professional.
Programs Making a Difference: Project ADAM and Beyond
Initiatives like Project ADAM are working to address these gaps by helping schools and communities become “heart safe.” The program focuses on developing emergency response plans, training staff, and ensuring access to AEDs. However, the poll suggests a multi-faceted approach is needed, extending beyond school staff to include students and parents.
What Can Parents Do Now?
Parents can grab several proactive steps to improve preparedness:
- Talk to your teen’s school: Locate out if they have an AED and where it’s located.
- Advocate for training: Encourage the school to offer CPR and AED training for students and staff.
- Seek out training yourself: Nearly nine in ten parents surveyed said they would be willing to receive free AED training.
- Know the signs: Be aware of potential warning signs of heart problems, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting.
FAQ: Cardiac Emergencies and Teens
Q: What is sudden cardiac arrest?
A: Sudden cardiac arrest is when the heart suddenly stops beating, often due to an electrical disturbance.
Q: What is an AED?
A: An AED is a portable device that delivers an electrical shock to the heart to restore a normal rhythm.
Q: Is CPR enough?
A: CPR helps circulate blood and oxygen to the brain, but an AED is often needed to restore a normal heart rhythm.
Q: Should my teen have a heart evaluation?
A: Discuss this with your pediatrician, especially if your teen is an athlete or has a family history of heart disease.
Q: What if I’m afraid of using an AED?
A: AEDs are designed to be user-friendly and provide clear instructions. Training can boost your confidence.
Did you know? CPR and AED training can significantly increase a person’s chances of survival after sudden cardiac arrest.
Pro Tip: Familiarize yourself with the location of AEDs in places you frequent, such as gyms, community centers, and shopping malls.
Learn more about sudden cardiac arrest and how to prepare at The American Heart Association.
What steps are you taking to ensure your family is prepared for a cardiac emergency? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
