Call to action to Braddon residents

Stroke Foundation

Stroke Foundation is issuing a call to action to Braddon residents after some concerning research results.

Recent research from Stroke Foundation has revealed that only 11 per cent of residents in the electorate of Braddon could recall three of the most common signs of stroke. This means a large portion of the community might not know to call triple zero when someone is having a stroke.

The Foundation is urging all Braddon residents to think F.A.S.T and act fast by learning the acronym – F is for facial droop, A is for inability to lift both arms, S is for slurred Speech and T is for Time – meaning that if you see any of these signs call triple zero (000) straight away.

Stroke Foundation Acting Chief Executive Officer, Dr Lisa Murphy, says acting quickly is crucial.

“When a stroke strikes, it attacks up to 1.9 million brain cells per minute, so time is of the essence when it comes to getting emergency medical treatment. The faster people can recognise the signs of stroke, the faster they can get specialist treatment which in turn leads to better recovery and health outcomes for the patient.”

Dr Murphy is urging all Braddon residents to come together as a community and learn the F.A.S.T acronym if not for themselves, then for a neighbour, a loved one or a friend.

“If just one person in every household and workplace knows the F.A.S.T acronym, it can be the difference between someone surviving the stroke and living well after stroke, or having a long-term disability. Sharing that message may just save a life.”

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