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How FAST are you in an emergency?
16 September 2008
National Stroke Week 15-21 September 2008
Hunter New England Health is challenging you to learn how to recognise the signs of Australia's second biggest killer during National Stroke Week.
Stroke Care Co-ordinator for the MacIntyre and Tablelands Clusters Melissa Gill said recognising any of the signs and calling 000 immediately can be the difference between death, severe disability and making a good recovery.
"A stroke (also known as cerebrovascular disease) occurs when the supply of blood to the brain is suddenly disrupted," Ms Gill said.
"It is Australia's second biggest killer with one occurring every 10 minutes and is Australia's leading cause of disability.
"The good news is the earlier a person receives medical attention in the event of a stroke the better their chance of making a full recovery.
"FAST is an easy way to remember the signs of stroke - the reward could be saving a life," Ms Gill said.
The FAST test involves asking three simple questions:
- Face - Can the person smile, without their mouth drooping?
- Arms - Can the person raise both arms?
- Speech - Can the person speak clearly and understand what you say?
- Time - Act FAST and call 000 immediately.
If you answer "no" to any of these questions, act FAST and call 000.
Stroke is always a medical emergency. Remembering the signs of stroke and acting FAST could mean saving a life.
Don't forget - stroke is a condition which is largely preventable through adopting a healthy diet, participating in regular exercise, not smoking and by reducing alcohol consumption.
Stroke Care Co-ordinator for the MacIntyre and Tablelands Clusters Melissa Gill is available for media interviews tomorrow (Wednesday 17 September).
Contact: Emma Gibbs
Phone: (02) 6767 7137 or 0428 114 767
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