There are around 100,000 strokes in England, Scotland and Wales every year, and around 33,000 stroke-related deaths.
New research shows that more than 1 in 4 people (29%) South Asians wouldn’t be confident in recognising the signs of a stroke. And fewer than 2 in 3 (64%) said that they would dial 999 as a first step if they noticed one of the key signs
The NHH’s F.A.S.T. campaign has reportedly helped to save many lives, so it is being relaunched by NHS England and the Stroke Association to make sure that even more people know what to do:
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 – even if you’re not sure, call 999.
You should call 999 if you notice even one of these signs.
Other medical issues that are common in the South Asian community can also increase the likelihood of having a stroke.
According to Dr. Sreeman Andole, Executive Medical Director and Stroke Consultant at Liverpool University Hospital, “We need to be aware that particular conditions that we see in the South Asian community – such as high blood pressure and diabetes - are strongly linked to risk of stroke. Ensuring that we are on the lookout for the symptoms of stroke in ourselves and others is therefore all the more important in saving lives.”
Visit www.nhs.uk/ActFAST for more information.