Let's talk about breasts - don't be shy!

Statistics show people with a female appearance are less like likely to receive life-saving CPR than someone who looks male.

One factor is that female anatomies don't show the same heart attack symptoms as males, with around 25% being asymptomatic. Recognising jaw pain, nausea & breathlessness as primary indicators in females is vital as the classic 'crushing chest pain' can be absent.

However, embarrassment and concerns over accusations of inappropriate behaviour are definitely significant factors so lets open a discussion about this...

Please comment on the three questions below and share this post as far and wide as we can!


Would you be just as quick to give CPR, or attach AED pads, to an outwardly female person - and do you identify as male, female or other? Lets not assume this is just about males giving CPR to females.

Would you be happy for a stranger to do CPR on you, and how do you identify?

Have you ever thought your gender identity could impact the first aid you might receive from a colleague or a stranger?


Understanding the views of a wide range of people will help understand the issues - both real ones and perceived ones!

Were you taught the differences in heart attack symptoms in males and females in your first aid training? This has been known about for many years! Make sure you and your colleagues are correctly trained in First Aid from a reliable and up-to-date instructor - someone's life may depend on it, maybe you own. Contact calum@fawcornwall.co.uk or visit www.fawcornwall.co.uk for more information, or to book a course and update your training. At FAW Cornwall we include female manikin training and all the latest advice from the FAIB (First Aid Industry Body) as one of their certified training providers.