MADISON, Wisconsin (Oct. 29, 2024) — Knowing how to spot a stroke F.A.S.T. and secondary stroke prevention are two focuses of the American Stroke Association for this year’s World Stroke Day on Oct. 29.

The American Stroke Association is a division of the American Heart Association, a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.

Strokes can happen to anyone, at any age. In fact, according to the American Stroke Association, about one in four adults older than 25 will have a stroke in their lifetime. Even so, most adults in the U.S. don’t know the F.A.S.T. warnings of a stroke and that stroke is largely treatable if you call 911 as soon as you recognize the symptoms.

Spot a stroke F.A.S.T.:

  • Face Drooping - Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person's smile uneven?
  • Arm Weakness - Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
  • Speech Difficulty - Is speech slurred? Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence, like "The sky is blue."
  • Time to Call 911 - If someone shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 911 and get to a hospital immediately. Check the time so you'll know when the first symptoms appeared.

“F.A.S.T. is an easy way to remember some of the major signs of stroke and a reminder that time is brain,” said UW Health Vascular Neurologist Dr. Cassie Nankee. “There are treatments that may be available for patients experiencing stroke that increase the chances of a better recovery.”

Test your knowledge and skills with the F.A.S.T. Experience, a digital series of games and activities designed to educate users on what the warning signs of a stroke look, feel and/or sound like.

Nearly one in four strokes occur in people who have had a previous stroke, according to the ASA, and in some instances, that happens because they don’t know what caused the first stroke.

Testing to identify a cause and additional stroke risk factors can help you and your health care professional develop a plan to keep you moving forward after a stroke and prevent another one.

Stroke is the fifth-leading cause of death and a leading cause of serious, long-term disability in the United States, despite stroke being largely preventable, treatable and beatable.

“Most strokes are preventable, and regular visits to your primary care doctor can help lower your stroke risk by addressing risk factors for stroke such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and others,” Nankee said.

Consider the following, according to the American Stroke Association:

  • Each year, approximately 800,000 people in the U.S. suffer a stroke.
  • Even though some people are at higher risk for stroke, like stroke survivors and people with un-managed AFib or high blood pressure, anyone can have a stroke at any time.
  • Recognizing the stroke warning signs and calling 911 immediately may make the difference between a strong recovery or long-term disability, survival or death.
  • High blood pressure is the leading cause and controllable risk factor for stroke and heart disease. It’s important to know your numbers and work with a health care professional to control levels and manage risks.
  • Having a stroke puts you at higher risk for a second one. However, there are things you can do to reduce your risk, starting with identifying what caused your stroke and uncovering all of your personal risk factors.

A stroke happens when normal blood flow in the brain is interrupted. When parts of the brain don’t get the oxygen-rich blood they need, those cells die. Quick identification and treatment of stroke equals a higher chance of survival and recovery. Having a stroke puts you at a higher risk for a second one. There are things you can do to reduce your risk, starting with identifying what caused your stroke and uncovering your personal risk factors.

A stroke can happen to anyone at any time. However, the burden and risk of stroke is higher among Black and Hispanic adults in the U.S. This is in part due to un-managed risk factors including high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes.

A large majority of strokes can be prevented through education and lifestyle changes such as moving more, eating smart and managing conditions like atrial fibrillation (AFib) and high blood pressure.

Learn more at Stroke.org/WorldStrokeDay.

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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments as we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.     

For media inquiries:
Travis Sloan: Travis.Sloan@Heart.org