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Today in History: Henry Heimlich introduces life-saving choking maneuver

6/1/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On June 1, 1974, Dr. Henry Heimlich introduced the Heimlich maneuver in a medical journal, a first-aid technique designed to treat choking by using abdominal thrusts. This method applies pressure to the diaphragm, helping to expel foreign objects blocking the airway and preventing oxygen deprivation, which can lead to death.

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Story summary

On June 1, 1974, Dr. Henry Heimlich introduced the Heimlich maneuver in a medical journal, a first-aid technique designed to treat choking by using abdominal thrusts. This method applies pressure to the diaphragm, helping to expel foreign objects blocking the airway and preventing oxygen deprivation, which can lead to death.