National Stroke Week runs from Monday, August 4 until Sunday, August 10 with this year’s theme, ‘know the signs and you could save a life’, encouraging Australians to learn the F.A.S.T. acronym.
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 more than 440,000 Australians survivors of stroke of all ages living around the country.
Stroke Foundation chief executive Dr Lisa Murphy said stroke remained one of Australia's leading causes of death and disability and recognising the signs was more important than people 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,” Ms Murphy said.
“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.
“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.”
Stroke Week also raises critical funds to support stroke prevention, research, recovery programs and advocacy efforts.
To find out more or get involved, visit www.strokefoundation.org.au.
