Stroke Awareness Month
Every May, Stroke Awareness Month is observed to increase public understanding of stroke risk factors, signs and symptoms, and the importance of timely treatment. It's a time to promote prevention and empower survivors and their caregivers with knowledge and resources.
What is a Stroke?
A stroke happens when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. Brain cells begin to die within minutes. Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability and the fifth leading cause of death in the U.S.
Know the Signs So You Can Act F.A.S.T.
Recognizing the signs early and calling 911 immediately can save a life.
F – Face drooping
A – Arm weakness
S – Speech difficulty
T – Time to call 911
Clot-busting medications like tPA (tissue plasminogen activator) can significantly reduce the impact of a stroke—but they must be administered within 3 to 4.5 hours of symptom onset, making immediate medical attention absolutely critical.
Manage Risk Factors You Can Control:
Did you know that 80% of strokes are preventable? While you can’t change certain risk factors like age, gender, or race, there are many others that you can control. They include:
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Physical inactivity
- Poor diet
- Excessive alcohol use
Get Involved:
- Share F.A.S.T. signs with your friends and family.
- Learn CPR - CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) can be highly effective in saving lives— immediate CPR can double or even triple a person's chance of survival after sudden cardiac arrest.
- Share information about local support groups with stroke survivors and caregivers.
- Join a walk, fundraiser, or educational event.
- Get your blood pressure checked – it’s the #1 controllable risk factor.
Let’s raise awareness, save lives, and support stroke survivors. Together, we can make a difference this May!
Resources:
Stroke.org (American Stroke Association)