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Automatic external defibrillators in Belgian fitness centres
Fabian Demeure1, Jean-Benoît le Polain de Waroux, Sébastien Marchandise
1Dept. of Cardiology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint Luc, Brussels, Belgium.
Acta Cardiologica
|May 28, 2013
Summary
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a risk in gyms. Few Belgian fitness centres have automated external defibrillators (AEDs) or trained staff, despite SCA occurrences. CPR without an AED led to the sole survivor.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular health
- Emergency preparedness
- Public health
Background:
- Fitness centres are increasing, offering specialized programs.
- Individuals lacking cardiovascular evaluation face risks.
- Gyms pose a high risk for sudden cardiac arrest (SCA).
Purpose of the Study:
- Evaluate AED availability in Belgian fitness centres.
- Assess SCA incidence and CPR training in these facilities.
Main Methods:
- Observational study surveying 51 fitness centres in French-speaking Belgium.
- Data collected via telephone on AEDs, attendees, and SCA events.
- Staff CPR training status was also recorded.
Main Results:
- Only 9.8% of centres had an AED; 35/51 had trained CPR staff.
- Five SCAs occurred in 3 centres (5.9%) since opening.
- AEDs were present during only 2 SCA events; CPR without AED yielded the only survivor.
Conclusions:
- SCA rates in Belgian fitness centres mirror international data.
- Less than 10% of centres are equipped with AEDs.
- Nearly one-third lack CPR-trained staff, impacting survival.
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