Spatial dependence of non-traumatic out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in a Swiss region: A retrospective analysis

Background: Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) incidence and survival often vary within regions according to patient-related and contextual factors. This study aims to establish the overall spatial dependence of incidence, bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (BCPR) and 48-h survival of OHCA with their associated demographic and socioeconomic characteristics in a Swiss region.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective study using data of all OHCAs recorded between 2007 and 2019 in the canton of Vaud and, more specifically, in the Lausanne area. Provision of BCPR and 48-h survival were analysed using Getis-Ord Gi statistics and OHCA incidence by local Moran's I with empirical Bayes standardised rates. Demographic and socioeconomic characteristics were compared between incidence clusters generated by local Moran's I method.

Results: Significant spatial variations of OHCA incidence, BCPR and 48-h mortality were observed. Although BCPR was statistically more likely in rural areas, 48-h survival was improved in a few main cities. At the cantonal level, postcode areas with a higher incidence of OHCAs were less densely inhabited with lower salary levels, more Swiss citizens, and an older population. At city level, small area variations were detected within urban neighbourhoods. The more affected hectares with more OHCAs were less inhabited, with a better median salary, more Swiss citizens, and off-centre.

Conclusions: Spatial variations associated with demographic and socioeconomic factors were observed for OHCA incidence and survival, with sparsely populated areas particularly at risk. These data suggest an unmet need for targeted prevention interventions and structural modifications of the existing prehospital system at the cantonal level.