According to the CDC, not enough Americans know the signs of a heart attack, and those who do wouldn't know what to do.
More than 900,000 Americans suffer heart attacks each year. More than 150,000 deaths occur within one hour of the first symptoms.
The five warning signs of heart attack are:
1) pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck or back;
2) feeling weak, lightheaded or faint;
3) chest pain or discomfort;
4) pain or discomfort in the arms or shoulder, and
5) shortness of breath.
What you should do if you or someone near you is suffering an attack: call 911. Do not attempt to drive yourself or the victim to the hospital. Quick action is vital to surviving the attack.
Source:
Article: Awareness of Heart Attack Signs, MSN Health & Fitness,
http://health.msn.com/health-topics/heart-and-cardiovascular/articlepage.aspx?cp-documentid=100194884>1=10910
More information:
American Heart Association
http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=3053