15th February 2018
National stroke campaign launches as new figures show larger proportion of strokes in middle age adults
Public Health England (PHE) has relaunched the Act F.A.S.T. stroke campaign as new figures reveal that while the majority of strokes happen to those over 70, a larger proportion of strokes are occurring in middle age adults (40 – 69 years)
The campaign reminds people of all ages, including friends, family and carers of people at risk, to be aware of the signs of stroke and reinforces the importance of acting F.A.S.T. and calling 999 if you notice any single one of the signs in yourself or others:
- Face – has their face fallen on one side? Can they smile?
- Arms – can they raise both arms and keep them there?
- Speech – is their speech slurred?
- Time to call 999
People who are deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired and are unable to call 999, can text the emergency services on 999 but need to register their phone in advance. To find out more go to emergencysms.org.uk
These messages are also particularly important for people with certain medical conditions who are more at risk of having a stroke. This includes people with conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and atrial fibrillation (an irregular heartbeat).
For more information including leaflets in alterative formats search ‘Act FAST’
Act F.A.S.T. Make the Call. Dial 999.
