Despite the enormous amount of media coverage attending Michael Jackson’s death, some questions remain unanswered. While the New York Times reports that a hospital spokesperson could not confirm reports of cardiac arrest, speculation suggests it as the most likely cause of Jackson’s death.

What is cardiac arrest? Dr. MDK explains the difference between sudden cardiac arrest and a heart attack in this video.  We also feature a video on Janet Zilinski, an 11-year-old who collapsed and died from sudden cardiac arrest while cheerleading. Learn what Janet’s parents are doing with schools to prevent and protect against the deadly effects of cardiac arrest.

According to the American Heart Association, coronary heart disease is the most common underlying cause of cardiac arrest. The AHA sponsors a “CPR anytime” program that teaches individuals how to apply CPR. Since the window of time in which a victim of cardiac arrest can fully recover is slim—five to seven minutes, at most—quick CPR application is necessary to prevent permanent brain damage, if not death. With roughly 350,000 deaths each year attributed to cardiac arrest and a survival rate of just 8%, on-site defibrillators and CPR-ready individuals are extremely important in combating cardiac arrest.

Knowing your risk for cardiac arrest is an important step in prevention. A recent post in the blog A Disease A Day lists some of these risk factors. Another important step in prevention is through maintaining a healthy lifestyle—no smoking, regular exercise, and a heart-healthy diet—is the most effective way to take care of your heart. Healthy individuals are typically safe from the risks and causes of sudden cardiac arrest.

Remember: Keep your heart healthy!