A recent stroke Act F.A.S.T. campaign survey carried out in February 2018 by Public Health England (PHE) in partnership with Black and Asian media, including Asian Voice, revealed that 72% of women knew the Act F.A.S.T. acronym which is used to help people identify the signs of a stroke compared to 62% of men. Only 86% of men surveyed knew the three most common signs of a stroke compared to 91% of women. Most people (84%) were aware that the faster stroke patients receive medical treatment the greater their chances of a better recovery, but shockingly almost 40% are not aware that getting treatment fast can help avoid long-term disability. Older people aged 55-74 are more likely to have a stroke but were less likely to be aware that getting treatment fast could save a person’s life.
According to a news release on behalf of Public Health England, knowing any single one of the signs of a stroke and calling 999 immediately enhances the chances of a good recovery. Men are at a higher risk of having a stroke at a younger age than women.
F.A.S.T. stands for:
- Face – has their face fallen on one side? Can they smile?
- Arms – can they raise both their arms and keep them there?
- Speech – is their speech slurred?
- Time – time to call 999
The survey designed specifically for Asian and Black communities to understand the current levels of knowledge about stroke highlights that some of the key Act F.A.S.T. stroke campaign messages are getting through but there’s still more work to be done.
Professor Julia Verne, Public Health England Director said: “ The results show that some of our ACT F.A.S.T. messages are getting through to those most at risk of stroke. However, it’s clear that we need to work harder to increase awareness of all the common signs of stroke and improve understanding that acting fast can save lives and prevent long-term disability.”
Actor Bhasker Patel said: “We need to do more to make sure that we continue to spread awareness of all the signs of stroke and encourage everyone to act fast, without delay, when they notice any one of the signs of stroke.”
