With one Aussie experiencing a stroke every 11 minutes, Shoalhaven locals are being urged to become more stroke aware.
Stroke is one of Australia's biggest killers and a leading cause of disability. More than 80% of strokes are preventable by controlling blood pressure, exercising regularly and eating a balanced diet.
In the Shoalhaven region, over 5,000 people are living with stroke, and 670 of them are aged under 65.
The NSW Government has partnered with Stroke Foundation to raise awareness of stroke in Shoalhaven.
Executive Director Stroke Programs, Research and Innovation, Kelvin Hill said recognising the signs of stroke is more important than people may think.
"When a stroke strikes, it attacks up to 1.9 million brain cells per minute, so there's no time to waste. The faster a stroke is treater, the better your chance of survival and recovery," Kelvin said.
"We're working alongside community leaders, local champions and health professionals to broaden the reach of the F.A.S.T. message - ensuring more people know to call triple zero (000) at the first sign of stroke.
"We want someone in every home and workplace to know the F.A.S.T. acronym and to share it with your family, friends and colleagues".
Think F.A.S.T and ask these questions if you suspect a stroke:
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 triple zero (000) straight away.
As part of the Be Stroke Aware in Shoalhaven partnership, a community event will be held at the Nowra Centre Plaza on Thursday, March 12 between 10am and 2pm.
Stroke Foundation staff will be speaking with community members about F.A.S.T. (Face, Arms, Speech, Time) and sharing free resources throughout the day.
