London, (Shahzad Ali) __ Wardown Park, Luton – On Saturday, a vibrant Health Festival took place at Wardown Park, featuring Dr. Tahir Mahmood , a distinguished GP of Kashmiri origin, who spearheaded a NHS professional team delivering complimentary Basic Life Support (BLS) and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) training to local residents. Numerous participants received certificates of attendance following their successful training.

During the Health event, Dr Mehmood who has completed 10 years of Free community health promotion and self care awareness, emphasized the concerning rise in incidents of sudden cardiac arrest, particularly among the youth within the community. He has been committed to providing free CPR training in Luton for over a decade.

“I strongly encourage everyone in our community to learn CPR and ensure that all family members are equipped with basic first aid skills,” he stated. “It is alarming that many individuals remain hesitant to acquire CPR proficiency; this fundamental skill has the potential to save a life in critical situations.”

Dr. Mehmood reiterated that CPR training is vital not only for medical professionals but for everyone, regardless of their environment—be it at home, in the workplace, or in public spaces.

Citing national statistics, he noted that approximately 40,000 to 50,000 cardiac arrests occur annually in the UK, with 80% of these incidents taking place at home or within the community.

“Regrettably, only 1 in 10 individuals survive out-of-hospital cardiac arrests,” he remarked. “If a cardiac event occurs in Luton and bystanders are trained in CPR, the chances of survival can significantly improve, potentially doubling or even tripling.”

Dr Tahir Mehmood also shared a poignant example from December 2023, when Luton Town Football Club captain Tom Lockyer collapsed on the pitch during a Premier League match.

“Thanks to the prompt initiation of CPR and early defibrillation by first responders, his life was preserved. This incident underpins the critical importance of learning CPR,” he noted.

Dr Mehmood thanked the organisers and the sponsors of organising 3rd successful Health event for town’s diverse community . People were engaged in CPR training , talking to the local GPs about their health matters including cancer screening . There was also dedicated women health service where female health professionals were present to discuss their health concerns .

Everyone who had attended for CPR at Luton Health Fest expressed their appreciation for the event, describing it as both educational and inspiring—a much-needed initiative in response to escalating health concerns within the community.

Dr Mehmood further encouraged local mosques and businesses to organise such events more frequently and contribute toward improving people’s health :

“If you are a business owner, Faith group like Mosque , it is imperative to ensure that your staff are adequately trained in first aid and CPR. There is no greater honor than saving a life; it is an essential responsibility.”