Stroke kills over 40,000 people a year and leaves around two thirds of stroke survivors with a disability.
Public Health England has launched its annual Act FAST campaign to remind people of the key symptoms of stroke and the importance of calling 999 immediately if they notice any single one of the key stroke symptoms in themselves or others.
- 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 – to call 999 if you see any single one of these signs
Research shows that 24% of people would wait to call an ambulance because they wrongly believe that they need to see two or more symptoms of stroke to be sure. Other barriers to dialling 999 include feeling that they need permission to act on behalf of others.
As part of the campaign new films will encourage everyone – whether they are a stranger in the street, a family member at home or the person themselves – not to hesitate and make the call immediately when they see any of the symptoms.
