Caution for Emergency Patients with Circulatory System Diseases such as Heart and Cerebrovascular Conditions from October to January

Fire Agency to Intensively Promote First Aid Methods Throughout October

[Asia Economy Reporter Jo In-kyung] The National Fire Agency announced on the 4th that it plans to intensively promote emergency treatment methods throughout October, when circulatory system disease cases begin to surge, and conduct training at fire stations nationwide.

According to the National Fire Agency, last year in South Korea, out of a total of 295,110 deaths, 20% or 60,252 were due to circulatory system diseases such as heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, and hypertensive disease. Although this number is slightly lower than the 62,947 deaths in 2018, it represents a 7.4% increase compared to 56,126 deaths in 2010.

Circulatory system diseases start to increase from October each year and peak in January. Last year, 35.6% (21,442 people) of deaths from circulatory system diseases occurred between October and January.

Accordingly, the National Fire Agency will focus on promoting early detection and emergency response for circulatory system diseases starting this month, and especially strengthen education and promotional activities targeting the elderly aged 70 and above, considering the high incidence rate in this age group.

It is important to receive hospital treatment promptly for circulatory system diseases, and knowing the warning signs and emergency treatment methods for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases helps prevent worsening conditions.

Cardiovascular disease symptoms include sudden chest pain and difficulty breathing, with pain spreading; in such cases, it is crucial to quickly seek help from those nearby, lie down with the upper body elevated to rest, and take deep breaths. Cerebrovascular disease warning signs include weakness causing the body to lean to one side, slurred speech, severe dizziness, and headaches.

To prevent circulatory system diseases, it is advisable to quit smoking, limit alcohol consumption, manage diet, control weight through about 30 minutes of daily exercise, and regularly monitor blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Additionally, elderly people and those with chronic illnesses should avoid outdoor activities early in the day.

Jang Geo-rae, head of the 119 Life Safety Division at the National Fire Agency, urged, "As outdoor activities such as hiking are expected to increase this year due to the impact of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), it is advisable for citizens to learn how to respond to emergency situations."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.