(WBEN) - Thanks to the individuals who trained themselves in CPR and the use of automated external defibrillators or AEDs, we saw Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin suit up and take the field for his first regular season game on Sunday, the first time since his sudden collapse on the field in January of 2022.
This has opened the eyes of the nation as to the importance of not only being trained in CPR, but educating themselves on AED machines and why most places should carry one in the event of a serious emergency.
"We see that there are requirements for more places by New York State law since the Damar Hamlin [collapse]," Roger Leising of Western New York Health Education and Equipment tells WBEN. "New York State has required more AEDs in more places, and the demand has also been there. Places that never thought about having an AED or having CPR training, are reaching out on a regular basis saying, 'Hey, we want to save our employees. We're concerned about something happening in house just like what happened to Damar'."
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According to Leising, there has been varying demand for AEDs and they come in many different types. AEDs are still on the FDA shortage list, and have been since July 2022.
"It comes on a rotating basis, when they're able to get all of their manufacturing issues [sorted]. Supply chains are still been affecting some of the manufacturers and the demand globally has definitely changed, making it difficult. Some are available for immediate delivery, some take a few weeks, and some even take as long as six months depending on which AED you prefer."
Leising notes some companies that make AEDs are opening new factories just to keep up with demand.
Western New York Health Education and Equipment team offers CPR classes that include how to use an AEDs. Upon completion of the course, you will then be certified for two years. AEDs in addition to administering CPR, greatly increase the chances of survival for those going into cardiac arrest.
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Leising says it is absolutely crucial to get our Western New York community involved in these life-saving practices.
"There is somebody dying of sudden cardiac arrest every 90 seconds. There are several people dying well before this interview is over. We need to get more people saved. The American Heart Association the quality of CPR based upon how many lives we are saving in that region. New York State is one of the lowest rates. There are other parts of the country that are saving 70% of the victims of sudden cardiac arrest, and that is because it is just a culture norm for them to have CPR training, and AEDs are littered throughout the city. For example, Seattle, Washington's at a 70% success rate. We're only saving 5%, and they're saving 70."