Women less likely to get CPR from bystanders, study suggests

A new study suggests that women are less likely than men to get CPR from a bystander and are more likely to die. Researchers think that reluctance to touch a woman's chest in public might be one reason.

The study involved nearly 20,000 cases around the country of cardiac arrest, where the heart suddenly stops beating. Only 39 percent of women suffering one in a public location were given CPR versus 45 percent of men, and men were 23 percent more likely to survive.

Rescuers may fear touching a woman's breasts, but proper CPR doesn't involve that. It requires pushing hard and fast in the middle of the chest between the breasts.

The study was discussed Sunday at an American Heart Association conference in Anaheim.

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.