Sudden Cardiac Arrest Association (SCAA)

The Sudden Cardiac Arrest Association is an independent not-for–profit public advocacy organization focused on sudden cardiac arrest.
To fulfill its mission, SCAA has developed a network of local chapters and affiliates to implement effective community programs.

Midwest Heart Foundation sponsors the SCAA Greater Chicago Chapter.

Our role as a local chapter is providing information, resources and
support; helping survivors, families and the community to understand
and prevent loss of life from Sudden Cardiac Arrest.

What is Sudden Cardiac Arrest?

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is the sudden and immediate loss of the
heart’s electrical system. It typically results in a rapid, erratic heartbeat
followed by no pulse. Victims quickly lose consciousness.

Without immediate CPR and the shock of an automated external
defibrillator (AED) to restore the heart’s rhythm, most victims die.

Startling facts about SCA

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is one of the leading causes of death in
the United States, claiming about 1,000 people a day.

It is estimated that sudden cardiac arrest affects more than
7000 children annually.

The average survival rate of someone who collapses from sudden
cardiac arrest is 6%.

By administering CPR and defibrillation within 5 minutes of collapse,
the survival rate increases to 30-50%.

To learn more about the SCAA please call us at 630.873.3422