'This World Stroke Day remember that Every Minute Counts - Nesbitt

This World Stroke Day the Health Minister is reminding people that ‘Every Minute Counts’.

World Stroke Day is held on 29th October each year, and is an opportunity to raise awareness of strokes and their impact on individuals and carers. It also gives the opportunity for discussions around prevention, assessment, treatment and long-term support.

The Health Minister Mike Nesbitt said: “This World Stroke Day, the theme is ‘Every Minute Counts’, which highlights the importance of recognising the signs of stroke and acting fast.

“I would encourage everyone in Northern Ireland to be a ‘stroke hero’ and learn the signs of stroke to help prevent the devastating impact they have. Every minute saved increases the chances of a full recovery. If you spot a sign of stroke, call 999 immediately.”

The F.A.S.T approach is a tool to help check for any of these signs of stroke:

• Face - Has it fallen on one side?
• Arms - Can they raise them?
• Speech - Is it slurred?
• Time - make the call immediately, dial 999

The Minister continued: “There are approximately 3,000 strokes in Northern Ireland each year, and up to 90% are preventable. You can significantly reduce your risk of having a stroke through leading a healthy lifestyle; eating healthy, taking regular exercise, reducing alcohol intake and not smoking. This World Stroke Day, I hope that people learn the signs of stroke, act fast and reflect on how they can take steps to reduce their risk of stroke.”

Dr Ivan Wiggam, Interim Clinical Lead Northern Ireland Stroke Network said: “Across Northern Ireland we have seen a delay in people calling 999 when stroke symptoms present. This can impact patient treatment options and their longer-term recovery. 

“Knowing the signs and symptoms of a stroke and acting FAST can improve the chances of a good outcome and reduce the level of disability after stroke. Even if symptoms are mild, dial 999 immediately”.