With one Australian experiencing a stroke every 19 minutes, people are being urged to learn a simple message which could save a life this National Stroke Week.
The national awareness week runs from Monday, August 5 until Sunday, August 11, and encourages the community to know the F.A.S.T. signs of stroke so they know how to react if someone they love is impacted by stroke.
Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer Dr Lisa Murphy said stroke can strike anyone at any time, even babies have strokes.
"When a stroke strikes, brain cells start dying at a frightening rate of up to 1.9 million per minute, but prompt medical treatment can stop this damage," Dr Murphy said.
"Our message is simple. The faster you can be treated for stroke, the more chance you have of making a full recovery. The vital first step in accessing these treatments is recognising the F.A.S.T. signs and calling triple zero (000).
"We want someone in every home and workplace to know the acronym and to share it with your family, friends and colleagues".
Think F.A.S.T and ask these questions if you suspect a stroke:
Face - Check their face. Has their mouth drooped?
Arms - Can they lift both arms?
Speech - Is their speech slurred? Do they understand you?
Time - Time is critical. If you see any of these signs, call triple zero (000) straight away.
Stroke is one of Australia's biggest killers and a leading cause of disability. More than 80% of strokes display at least one of the F.A.S.T. signs.
"The good news is that stroke can be treated, and people can recover well but only if more people can recognise the F.A.S.T message," Dr Murphy said.
"Some simple things you can do to reduce your risk include getting regular blood pressure checks, quitting smoking, eating a balanced diet, staying active and avoiding alcohol.
National Stroke Week is proudly supported by major sponsor: EMVision and supporting sponsors: AbbVie and Precision Fundraising.
