June 10, 2025 – Despite official directives mandating the installation of Automated External Defibrillators (AED) in government facilities, less than 10% of these locations across Iran are currently equipped with this lifesaving technology. According to Tehran Emergency’s training official, this shortfall persists even though local manufacturers have achieved domestic production of AEDs and neighboring Gulf countries have made significant progress in deployment.

He emphasized that widespread adoption of AEDs in high-traffic areas such as metro stations and stadiums is expected to expand in the near future, with eventual coverage in all densely populated buildings. The initial directive for government facility deployment was issued during the previous administration, but implementation remains limited.

Timely use of AEDs is crucial, as the global “golden time” for cardiac resuscitation is four minutes. Emergency services alone cannot consistently reach patients within this critical window, making the installation of AEDs in public spaces and public first aid training essential measures to reduce sudden cardiac deaths.

The AED is a smart device capable of diagnosing the patient’s condition and providing resuscitation instructions in the desired language, allowing prompt intervention before an ambulance arrives. While AED use has been standard internationally since 1995, Iran still faces challenges in public awareness and deployment, highlighting the urgent need for a nationwide culture shift.

The 26th Iran Health Exhibition, featuring 580 domestic and international companies, was held at the Iran International Exhibition Center from June 8 to 11, 2025.