Abstract 224: Socioeconomic Disparities in Layperson CPR Training Within a Large U.S. City

Abstract

Aim of the Study: Prompt bystander CPR is a crucial intervention to improve cardiac arrest survival. However, recent work suggests that the prevalence of layperson CPR training remains low. We sought to understand how individual factors and neighborhood characteristics influence an individual’s likelihood of being trained in CPR within a large U.S. city. We hypothesized that higher socioeconomic status (educational attainment, and median household income (MHI)) would be associated with a higher likelihood of having previously received CPR training. Methods: Through The Mobile CPR Project, a program providing hands-only CPR and AED education to underserved communities in the greater Philadelphia region, we surveyed participants regarding prior CPR training. Survey questions pertained to race, gender, education, prior CPR training, Automated External Defibrillator (AED) awareness, and nearest street intersection to their residence. MHI was extrapolated via census tract data. Results: From 7/2016 to 4/2018, 1665 subjects completed surveys prior to CPR training. Of these, 70% were female, 70% were non-white, median age was 41 [IQR 25-59] yrs, and MHI was $39,318 [IQR $27,708-$60,795]. Subjects residing in tracts with MHI below the cohort median were significantly less likely to have ever received CPR training (first quartile: OR 0.646, CI 0.491 -0.850, p=0.002; second quartile: OR 0.576, CI 0.437 - 0.759, p<0.001). Gender was not significantly related to likelihood of being trained. Individuals who did not complete high school were less likely to ever receive training (Less than high school: OR 0.175, CI 0.089 - 0.344, p<0.001; Some high school: OR 0.452 0.303 - 0.675, p<0.001). In multiple logistic regression controlling for age, race, gender, MHI, and education, increasing educational attainment was associated with higher likelihoods of ever receiving trained (OR 7.96 Master’s or Doctoral compared to less than high school, CI 5.24 - 12.11, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Among laypersons attending a free CPR training session, there is a strong association between socioeconomic factors (MHI, educational attainment) and likelihood of prior CPR training.