Here are some facts about sudden cardiac arrest or SCA:

• Sudden cardiac arrest occurs when there is a malfunction of the heart's system. The most common cause is ventricular defibrillation.

• Symptoms of SCA are a sudden loss of consciousness and the ceasing of normal breathing.

• SCA is different from a heart attack. A heart attack is caused by a blockage of blood in the body which causes the heart muscle to die. Although the terms are often used interchangeably, heart attacks and SCA are different and they require different treatment.

• Over 200,000 individuals die each year from SCA. Some estimates put that number even higher.

• SCA can occur at any age. Stories of school athletes dying from SCA while playing sports are reminders of this.

• Defibrillation in the first few minutes of SCA increases the chances for survival. Without immediate treatment, an estimated 95 percent of patients will die from the sudden onset of SCA.

Because of facts like these and the greater availability of portable defibrillators, more individuals are buying one. For individuals who have loved ones with risk factors, purchasing a portable defibrillator gives them the peace of mind of knowing that they'll be able to act immediately should SCA arise. Public areas have also seen an increase in the presence of portable defibrillators. People like knowing that in the event of an emergency, they will be able to help a co-worker, student, or customer.

Portable defibrillators are easy to purchase and use. Newer units designed for homes do not require prescriptions and can be purchased by anyone who wants to have one. This allows business owners and others to buy one from retailers.

The units are designed so that virtually anyone can use them, even if they have had little or no training with the defibrillator. Audio instructions guide users through the steps to help a patient. The portable defibrillator automatically monitors the patient's heart rate and determines whether treatment is needed.

Portable defibrillators should be considered for any school, business, or other public area. The immediate use of a defibrillator has been shown to save lives, but waiting for a first responder can be the difference between life and death.

Your school or business should not be without a portable defibrillator. Visit All About Defibrillators to learn why you need automated external defibrillators on site.