Using Data to Save Lives: How Research Guides CPR Education for Youth Sports Programs

At NYSAP AED, we are passionate about equipping youth sports programs with the tools and training necessary to prevent tragic outcomes from sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). The paper, Geospatial Analysis for Targeting Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Intervention, published in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine, sheds light on critical areas where CPR training and AED placement can make the greatest impact.

The study, which focuses on Houston, Texas, examines zip codes with high rates of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) and low bystander CPR intervention rates. This granular approach to mapping risk is invaluable for organizations like ours, as it allows us to target resources to areas of greatest need.

Bridging the Gap in High-Risk Areas

By analyzing the paper's findings, we can identify which Houston youth sports programs operate in these high-risk zip codes. This means that our efforts to teach CPR and distribute AEDs won’t just be widespread—they’ll be strategic. With data-driven planning, we can ensure that underserved communities, where bystander CPR is less likely to occur, receive focused attention.

Why Data Matters for CPR Education

Research like this highlights disparities in bystander intervention, often tied to socioeconomic factors, access to training, and community awareness. When we understand where these disparities exist, we can:

• Prioritize training in communities most affected by OHCA.

• Partner with local organizations already active in these areas.

• Evaluate the long-term impact of our training programs using community-specific metrics.

Scaling Impact Through Research Collaboration

Houston is just one example of how we can use research to guide our mission. As we expand our reach, we aim to collaborate with other medical schools and community organizations to replicate this data-driven approach in cities nationwide. By aligning efforts with evidence-based findings, we’re not just teaching skills—we’re creating systemic change to save lives.

Get Involved

If you're in the Houston area and want to bring our training programs to your community, reach out! Together, we can make youth sports safer for every athlete, coach, and family.

Research provides the roadmap, but it’s organizations like NYSAP AED and supporters like you who take action. Let’s transform data into life-saving outcomes!

Source:

Raun LH, Jefferson LS, Persse D, Ensor KB. Geospatial analysis for targeting out-of-hospital cardiac arrest intervention. Am J Prev Med. 2013 Aug;45(2):137-42. doi: 10.1016/j.amepre.2013.03.013. PMID: 23867019.