NATIONAL STROKE AWARENESS MONTH
May is World Stroke Month. Many health and heart organizations come together every May to raise awareness about the causes and effects of stroke.
One of their biggest campaigns is FAST, teaching the world to know the symptoms of stroke and how to respond quickly to help save a life.
- Face – By asking the person to smile you can tell immediately if one side of the face droops.
- Arm – Ask the person to raise both arms. Observe to see if one arm drifts lower than the other.
- Speech – Slurred speech is a symptom of stroke. Ask the person to repeat a single sentence.
- Time – Call 911-Fast. Time may be the difference between life and death or even partial and full recovery.
HOW TO OBSERVE #StrokeAwarenessMonth
- Learn the signs of stroke.
- Learn your risks for stroke and take action to change your lifestyle to reduce your risks.
- Have a talk with a loved one about stroke risks.
- Visit cdc.gov and stroke.org to find out more.
- Use #StrokeAwarenessDay to post on social media.
NATIONAL STROKE AWARENESS MONTH HISTORY
National Stroke Awareness Day was proclaimed in 1989 by President George H. W. Bush. It had been observed for many years before the proclamation. The Centers for Disease Control, the American Heart Association, World Stroke Campaign, and many others have all participated in bringing education, research, and treatment on a global basis.