Heart Association Busts CPR Myth: You Don't Need Special Training to Save a Life

A new survey from the American Heart Association reveals a dangerous misconception that could be costing lives: nearly 60% of American adults still incorrectly believe that only people with special training should perform Hands-Only CPR. This persistent myth is a critical public health concern, as immediate bystander CPR can double or even triple a person's chance of survival after a cardiac arrest. The organization is launching a powerful campaign during Heart Month 2026 with the theme "You Are the First Responder Until Help Arrives," aiming to empower everyone with the simple, life-saving knowledge that anyone can perform CPR. The campaign is part of the broader Nation of Lifesavers initiative, sponsored nationally by Walgreens, with the ambitious goal of doubling survival from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest by 2030.

The core message is straightforward and urgent: if a teen or adult collapses, call 911 and then push hard and fast in the center of the chest. Hands-Only CPR requires no certification—just the courage to act. Dr. Stacey E. Rosen, volunteer president of the American Heart Association, emphasizes that heroism is an everyday act, stating, "CPR is a civic duty." The campaign directly addresses common fears, such as doing it "wrong" or legal concerns, which disproportionately affect women and Black adults, leading to lower rates of bystander CPR in these groups. The reality is stark: with over 350,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests annually in the U.S. and a 90% fatality rate, most occurring at home, the willingness of a loved one or bystander to act is often the only hope for survival.

To combat this knowledge gap, the American Heart Association provides accessible resources for everyone. People can watch and learn the basics online, take a class to build confidence at heart.org/nation, or advocate for cardiac emergency response plans in their communities. A compelling real-world example underscores the message's power: Kristen Walenga survived a sudden cardiac arrest at home because her 15-year-old son, Eddie, had learned CPR through the American Heart Association's Kids Heart Challenge program in middle school. His immediate action, while siblings called 911, saved her life, proving that preparation transcends age. By busting the myth that special training is needed, the Association seeks to turn more bystanders into lifesavers, strengthening community resilience and saving countless lives.