New stroke campaign launched by NHS England
NHS England has launched a new stroke campaign, its first major update to ‘Act FAST’ since 2009.
The campaign aims to raise awareness of the three common symptoms associated with stroke: Struggling to smile (Face) or raise an arm (Arms), or slurring words (Speech).
Around 100,000 people have a stroke each year in the UK. Without prompt treatment a stroke can result in death or long-term disabilities such as paralysis, memory loss and communication problems.
Dr David Hargroves, NHS National Clinical Director for Stroke and consultant stroke physician, says:
“When someone has a stroke, it’s estimated they may lose around two million brain cells a minute, which is why rapid diagnosis and treatment is critical – the first sign of a stroke might not seem like much, but face or arm or speech, at the first sign it’s time to call 999.”
You can view the campaign film here: https://youtu.be/2p0rUIKkX50?si=RjA6-T_b5LWIXBC3
Find out more here: https://www.england.nhs.uk/2024/11/nhs-launches-major-new-stroke-campaign-as-thousands-delay-calling-999-by-nearly-90-minutes/