In early May, 2025, a 29-year-old man died suddenly after running a mini-marathon.
Because he was so young, Patrick Holden’s death came as a shock to his family and friends. Older adults, especially men, are more likely to go into cardiac arrest. The cause and manner of his death are still pending, according to the coroner’s report.
If you can recognize the signs of cardiac arrest, you may be able to help if someone around you goes into cardiac arrest. Here’s what you need to know.
What is cardiac arrest? What’s the difference between cardiac arrest and a heart attack?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it’s not the same as having a heart attack. It happens when “the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating,” stopping blood from flowing to the whole body.
If the person survives the cardiac arrest, they can have injuries to the brain or other internal organs.
A heart attack refers to an episode in which “a part of the heart muscle doesn’t get enough blood,” according to the CDC.
How common is cardiac arrest in younger people?
The most recent annual report for Cardiac Arrest Registry to Enhance Survival includes demographic information for sudden cardiac arrest. Most cardiac arrest patients (63%) were male. Overall, only 2.7% were children.
The majority of people of both sexes who suffered cardiac arrest were 35 or older, with most of those between 50 and 79.
See more demographic information in the annual report.
How do you know if someone is in cardiac arrest?
A person in cardiac arrest may exhibit the following symptoms, the CDC says:
What to do if someone is in cardiac arrest
Call 911.
The CDC also recommends looking for an automated external defibrillator (AED) and administering CPR until medical professionals arrive.
The American Red Cross offers training in CPR, AED use and first aid.
Who was Patrick Holden?
The Brownsburg High School graduate received an MBA and PharmD from Butler University. He worked for Eli Lilly & Co.
CONTRIBUTING: Noe Padilla & Ryan Murphy.
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: How can you help if someone goes into cardiac arrest? How common is it in young people?
Reporting by Jenny Porter Tilley, Indianapolis Star / Indianapolis Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
