Stroke resources - consumers
The Stroke Foundation has provided a fact sheet with the top ten facts about stroke (see below).
The Foundation encourages you to educate your loved ones, to raise awareness of the signs of stroke and to promote the FAST test during National Stroke Week.
For information and advice on stroke prevention, treatment, recovery, support and National Stroke Week, visit www.strokefoundation.com.au or call StrokeLine 1800 787 653.
Top ten facts about stroke
1. Stroke is Australia’s second single greatest killer after coronary heart disease and a leading cause of disability.
2. In 2010, Australians will suffer over 60,000 new and recurrent strokes – that’s one stroke every 10 minutes.
3. One in five people having a first-ever stroke die within one month and one in three die within a year.
4. The number of strokes will increase each year due to the ageing population unless something is done to reduce the incidence rate.
5. The FAST test is an easy way to recognise and remember the signs of stroke. Using the FAST test involves asking three simple questions:
· Face – Check their face. Has their mouth drooped?
· Arms – Can they lift both arms?
· Speech – Is their speech slurred? Do they understand you?
· Time – Time is critical. If you see any of these signs, call 000 straight away.
6. In the next ten years, more than half a million people will suffer a stroke.
7. Stroke kills more women than breast cancer.
8. About 88% of stroke survivors live at home and most have a disability.
9. Close to 20% of all strokes occur to people under 55 years old.
10. Strokes cost Australia an estimated $2.14 billion a year (based on 2005 estimates).
Remember, acting FAST could mean the difference between death or severe disability and a good recovery.