An eye-opening study has uncovered that a significant portion of individuals hesitates to administer CPR to women due to concerns about touching their chests. Additionally, a notable percentage of men express apprehension about potential allegations of inappropriate behavior when performing chest compressions.
The survey, conducted by St John Ambulance among 1,000 adults in the UK, reveals a troubling reluctance to provide life-saving treatment to women in need.
St John Ambulance has strongly emphasized that this reluctance, driven by a sexual taboo, increases the risk of women dying from cardiac arrest. The charity asserts that regardless of gender, CPR should be administered without hesitation, emphasizing the importance of saving lives.
Despite being in 2025, the charity had to reiterate the message that “Every body is the same,” highlighting that CPR should be administered uniformly. Previous studies indicate a disparity in the likelihood of women receiving bystander CPR compared to men.
In response, St John Ambulance urges everyone to learn CPR and stresses that the technique should be applied consistently to both men and women. The charity questions why women should have lesser chances of survival simply because of anatomical differences.
The survey findings expose further concerns, with a significant percentage of respondents expressing discomfort about using a defibrillator, particularly when pads need to be placed on bare skin. A notable gender discrepancy is evident, with more men feeling uneasy about using a defibrillator on women that may involve removing clothing.
It is crucial to note that prompt defibrillator use within the first three minutes can significantly increase the chances of survival during a cardiac arrest.
Efforts are needed to address these issues. The reluctance to administer CPR should not be influenced by gender-related stereotypes or discomfort. Providing the necessary support and training can enhance individuals’ comfort levels and willingness to act in emergency situations.
It is imperative to dispel misconceptions and prioritize saving lives over unwarranted concerns. Everyone should feel empowered to provide aid without hesitation, as swift action can make a life-saving difference in critical situations.
