New Stroke Foundation data has revealed regional Queenslanders are outshining their metropolitan neighbours when it comes to recognising the signs of stroke.
Stroke Foundation's annual F.A.S.T. National Awareness Survey found that 55 per cent of regional Queenslanders know speech difficulties can indicate a stroke is happening, compared to 52 per cent of Brisbane residents. The recognition that the inability to lift both arms is a sign of stroke registers at 12 per cent for regional Queensland and just 9 per cent in Brisbane.
One of the biggest differences between regional Queensland and Brisbane is knowing that facial droop is a sign of stroke with awareness at 46 per cent and 40 per cent respectively.
The F.A.S.T acronym highlights the three most common signs of stroke - Facial droop, the inability to lift both Arms, and slurred Speech. The 'T' stands for time, as a reminder that a stroke requires time-critical emergency treatment.
"We know that regional Australians are 17 per cent more likely to have a stroke than people living in metropolitan areas so it's fantastic to see that residents in regional Queensland are taking this health issue seriously and are prepared if one strikes." says Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Sharon McGowan.
In just one year, regional Queensland has lifted its awareness across the board. Recognising speech difficulties as a sign of stroke improved by two per cent and awareness of facial droop and inability to lift both arms both increased by three per cent.
"While the percentage increases might seem small, they actually equate to thousands of people who now know a sign, and this can make all the difference in saving a life." Ms McGowan says.
When a stroke strikes it attacks 1.9 million brain cells per minute which is why it is important to recognise the signs of stroke and get emergency treatment as quickly as possible.
"This all starts with knowing the signs. When someone can recognise a stroke quickly, they can call an ambulance sooner which means the person having a stroke gets specialist treatment faster. This leads to a better chance of survival and a better chance of a good recovery." Ms McGowan says.
"We can't stop here and lose momentum. Stroke Foundation would like to see long-term investment into stroke education to keep the ball rolling and create generational change in the community."
Stroke Foundation is also urging the Queensland Government to fund a Telestroke service which would link regional Queenslanders to specialist services that are not as easily accessible. Getting a fast diagnosis and beginning appropriate treatment is key to getting the best outcome after a stroke.
"It was heartening to hear in November last year Health Minister Yvette D'Ath telling parliament that Telestroke was 'under consideration as part of the development of a Queensland virtual stroke service' and we look forward to seeing this come to fruition." Ms McGowan says.
