At a time when instances of unexpected cardiac arrests claiming the lives of youngsters are being frequently reported in Kerala, government doctors have sought steps to include lessons about life-saving methods such as cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on school and college syllabuses, along with creating awareness about them among the people.
In a latest incident reported from Thiruvananthapuram, an employee of the State Legislative Assembly collapsed and died during the Onam celebrations. As the event was being shot on camera, its video went viral on social media as well.
The CPR is an emergency procedure to ensure flow of blood and oxygen to the brain and other organs when the heart stops functioning and the breathing stops. The Kerala Government Medical Officers’ Association (KGMCA) president P.K. Sunil and general secretary Jobin G. Joseph said that providing CPR on time can be crucial in saving lives. For example, recently, a young staff of the Kerala State Electricity Board was brought back to life by the doctors and other staff at the Government Taluk Hospital, Wadakkancherry, Thrissur, by providing CPR at the right time.
Dr. Sunil and Dr. Joseph said that the thin boundary between life and death is determined by the treatment given in the first few minutes of a cardiac arrest. In such a context, it is essential to train students on CPR and similar first-aid treatment, they said.
The KGMOA functionaries suggested that lessons on CPR should be made mandatory on the syllabus for high schools, higher secondary schools and colleges.
CPR training events should be organised by involving colleges, public sector units, residents’ associations, and youth organisations. First-aid kits and life-saving devices such as Automated External Defibrillator should be made available at busy public spaces and during events.
The KGMOA also suggested to create awareness about life-saving methods like CPR through social media platforms.
Published – September 04, 2025 05:23 pm IST
