Stroke Foundation is urging all Australians to do their part this National Stroke Week by learning and sharing the F.A.S.T. signs of stroke so they know how to react if someone they love experiences a stroke.
F.A.S.T. highlights the three most common signs of stroke (Face drooping, Arm weakness, and Speech difficulty) while emphasising the importance of Time when it comes to recognising and treating a stroke.
The call to action comes after Stroke Foundation’s 2024 Economic Impact of Stroke Report found that a stroke occurs every 11 minutes in Australia.
In 2023, there were an estimated 45,785 strokes in Australia, and there were more than 440,000 Australians survivors of stroke of all ages living around the country.
Stroke remains one of Australia’s leading causes of death and disability.
Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Dr Lisa Murphy, said recognising the signs of stroke is more important than people may think.
“When a stroke strikes, it attacks up to 1.9 million brain cells per minute so there’s absolutely no time to waste. You must act fast and call triple zero (000) for help.”
“The faster you can receive treatment for stroke, the more chance you have of surviving, with better outlook for recovery. This chain of survival starts with knowing the F.A.S.T. signs of
stroke and calling the ambulance as soon as possible,” Dr Murphy added.
“There is a common misconception that stroke only happens to older Australians, but we know that stroke doesn’t discriminate. Stroke can occur in people of all ages.
In fact, one in four strokes affect Aussies of working age.
This is why it is critically important for all Australians to learn and share the F.A.S.T. signs of stroke.”
National Stroke Week runs from Monday, August 4 until Sunday, August 10.
Any South Burnett stroke survivors and their families are welcome to join the South Burnett Stroke Support Group, which has been founded by Rishana and Graham Smith.
For more information visit the ‘South Burnett Stroke Support Group’ Facebook page or email sbssg22@gmail.com
