The life-threatening difference: 37 minutes delay for women

During a heart attack, every minute counts. Yet research shows that women wait an average of 37 minutes longer than men before seeking medical attention. That's no small difference; in the world of cardiology, 37 minutes is an eternity that costs lives.

Why do women wait longer?

The symptoms are different – ​​and less well-known. Most people associate a heart attack with the classic sharp chest pain (the "elephant" feeling). In women, the signs are often much more subtle. Do you recognize these symptoms?

• Extreme fatigue (just like that, out of nowhere)

• Nausea or a "tight" feeling in the stomach

• Pain between the shoulder blades, in the jaw or neck

• Shortness of breath and dizziness

Because these symptoms are vague, they are often not directly linked to an AED-induced cardiac arrest or heart attack. Not by the woman herself, and unfortunately, sometimes not by healthcare providers either.

Caring for others trumps their own health . Many women tend to dismiss their symptoms. They don't want to "make a fuss," want to finish housework or work first, or prefer to take care of their family first. In the case of a heart attack, this self-sacrifice is life-threatening: every minute you wait, more heart muscle tissue dies.

The damage of those lost minutes

Those 37 minutes cause greater heart damage, a lower survival rate, and a higher risk of permanent disability. Women die more often from heart attacks than men, simply because treatment begins too late.

What can you do?

1. Know the Signs: Learn the Difference Between the Male and Female Heart.

2. When in doubt, call 112 immediately: You don't have to be certain. It's better to call one time too many than one time too late.

3. Have an AED nearby: An AED saves lives, provided it is used immediately after the heart stops.

4. Take a CPR course: Learn how to perform CPR and how to use the AED on women (such as removing the bra to ensure good contact with the electrodes).

Reduce the difference, save a life

Awareness is the first step towards a heart-safe environment for everyone.

• Download the flyer: Do you want to always have the symptoms for women at hand or distribute them at your work or sports club? Download the Women's Heart Flyer here .

• Make your environment heart safe: Are you considering a AED to buy For your neighborhood or business? Choose a model that provides clear instructions, such as the Zoll AED 3 or Philips AED .

• Practice specifically: Use a specific AED during your next training session resuscitation doll with a female torso (such as the Prestan Female Accessory) to lower the threshold for women to seek assistance.

• Maintenance guaranteed: Ensure your equipment is always ready for action with our maintenance contracts .

Want to learn more about women's hearts? Visit vrouwenhart.nl for in-depth information and personal stories. Together, we'll make those 37 minutes a thing of the past!