Hellenic Cardiological Society promotes national strategy for cardiac death prevention

The Hellenic Cardiological Society (HCS) is advocating for a national strategy to prevent sudden cardiac death through an organized chain of care. This strategy emphasizes the importance of public awareness and the critical role of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). Because medical professionals may not be immediately available during a cardiac arrest, trained citizens can serve as a vital link in the survival chain.

To integrate CPR into daily culture, the HCS, in collaboration with the European Resuscitation Council, has developed training and certification programs for both healthcare professionals and the general public. Legislative steps have already been taken, including mandatory CPR training for coaches under Law 4809/2021 and requirements for staff in businesses with more than 50 employees under Law 5239/2025.

Additionally, medical experts highlight the importance of recognizing early warning signs of a heart attack. Symptoms such as angina—which may present as pressure, weight, or tightness in the chest rather than sharp pain—can appear days or weeks before a major cardiac event. Early recognition of these indicators is essential for avoiding serious complications.