According to the American Heart Association, research shows that experiences related to stigma, discrimination and chronic stress can influence long‑term cardiovascular health.[1] The Association's scientific statement on cardiovascular health for transgender and gender diverse people also calls for improved training, systems and culturally responsive care to better support the LGBTQ+ community across their lifespan.[2] The American Heart Association's Pride With Heart initiative and resources highlight the importance of both community empowerment and access to care.
This June, during Pride Month, the American Heart Association, devoted to changing the future to a world of healthier lives for all, is encouraging LGBTQ+ communities and allies to learn Hands‑Only CPR and be ready to act when every second counts.
Each year, more than 350,000 people in the U.S. experience an out‑of‑hospital cardiac arrest and 9 out of 10 people don't survive, often because help doesn't arrive fast enough.[3] Immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can double or even triple a person's chance of survival,[4] yet many bystanders hesitate to act or don't know what to do.
"More than 20 million LGBTQ+ adults in the U.S. face higher risks to their heart health, influenced by both clinical and social drivers of health," said Stacey E. Rosen, M.D., FAHA, volunteer president of the American Heart Association and executive director of the Katz Institute for Women's Health and senior vice president of women's health at Northwell Health in New York City. "By learning Hands-Only CPR and encouraging others to do the same, communities can help close gaps in emergency response and ensure more people are prepared to act when it matters most."
Hands‑Only CPR is easy to learn and remember. It involves two simple steps: call 911 and push hard and fast in the center of the chest at a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute until help arrives.[5]
How to take action
- Learn Hands‑Only CPR: heart.org/cpr
- Find a CPR course near you: cpr.heart.org
- Learn more about Pride With Heart: heart.org
Year-round, the Association stands with the LGBTQ+ community by funding innovative research, advocating for public health and sharing lifesaving resources like CPR education and training. Visit the Pride with Heart website for LGBTQ+ health news and resources.
