KAP related to first aid among first-year ethnic minority students: a cross-sectional study using latent profile analysis.

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS), encompassing ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), and unstable angina, remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide (, ). Despite substantial advances in diagnostic modalities and reperfusion therapies, outcomes in ACS are highly dependent on early recognition and timely initiation of treatment (, ). Prehospital delay, defined as the time from symptom onset to first medical contact, is a critical determinant of clinical outcomes. Prolonged delay is associated with increased myocardial damage and mortality. Importantly, most of this delay is patient-related, often resulting from poor symptom recognition and misinterpretation of symptom severity (, ). Although early reperfusion is essential, only a minority of patients present within the recommended time window, while many delay seeking care for several hours (). Public awareness and recognition of early ACS symptoms play a crucial role in timely help-seeking behavior. While chest pain is the most commonly recognized symptom, ACS may also present with atypical manifestations such as dyspnea, fatigue, nausea, or indigestion, which are frequently misattributed to less serious conditions (, ). Consequently, patients experiencing atypical or gradual symptom onset are more likely to delay seeking medical attention. In addition, psychological factors, including denial, low perceived risk, and symptom misinterpretation, further contribute to delayed decision-making (, ).