News

Health | September 01, 2017

Kealy - Act F.A.S.T. this Stroke Week

The Nationals Member for Lowan, Emma Kealy MP is urging local people to think and act F.A.S.T. this National Stroke Week.

2017 National Stroke Week is taking place from Monday 4 September to Sunday 10 September.

“Time is critical when it comes to stroke and knowing the signs could save a life,” Ms Kealy said.

“A stroke is always a medical emergency and the earlier treatment is delivered, the better the outcome for the patient.

“This year the Stroke Foundation is aiming to ensure every Australian household has someone who knows the signs of a stroke and to call 000.

“F.A.S.T. is the internationally recognised test to identify the signs of a stroke, with 80 per cent of strokes showing at least one of the F.A.S.T. signs,” she said.

Face - Check their face - has their mouth drooped?

Arms – Can they lift both arms?

Speech – Is their speech slurred and do they understand you?

Time – Time is critical. If you can see any of these symptoms act F.A.S.T and call 000.

“Stroke kills more women than breast cancer, more men than prostate cancer and leaves thousands with an ongoing disability,” Ms Kealy said.

“Educating yourself on the causes and signs of a stroke and getting involved in National Stroke Week will help promote a better understanding of this medical emergency and save lives,” she said.

For more information visit the Stoke Foundation website strokefoundation.org.au/strokeweek