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Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) occurs when the heart stops beating effectively, often due to an irregular heart rhythm. This can be caused by heart-related issues like blockages (heart attacks) or structural problems, but not all heart attacks lead to SCA, and vice versa. SCA can also result from non-heart-related causes like asthma, choking, or drug overdose, which reduce oxygen to the heart.

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In Australia and New Zealand, over 30,000 community cardiac arrests happen yearly, with a 90% mortality rate. SCA is a leading cause of death in young and middle-aged people, surpassing road accidents, cancer, and infectious diseases. The risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) rises sharply with age, from 1-2 per 100,000 in people under 30 to 1-2 per 1,000 in older adults. The economic impact is significant, costing Australia nearly AUD$2 billion annually, similar to losses from all cancers combined. Despite this, SCA research is underfunded globally.

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Australia lacks a national strategy to prevent SCA-related deaths, though some states are taking steps like providing defibrillators (AEDs) and teaching life support in schools. The National Summit for Cardiac Arrest brought together experts, survivors, and organizations to discuss how to reduce SCA's impact. Key goals include advancing research, improving clinical standards, and raising awareness.

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Reducing SCD requires collaboration across fields like cardiology, emergency services, and public health. The Summit aimed to identify priorities and innovative solutions. While Australia follows resuscitation guidelines, there’s a need for better prevention and follow-up care. Recent international guidelines from the European Society of Cardiology and The Lancet Commission provide valuable benchmarks for improving Australian practices.