From family members to bystanders, everyday Australians are being called on to become 'F.A.S.T. heroes' this National Stroke Week by learning how to recognise the signs of stroke and acting quickly when stroke strikes.
F.A.S.T. highlights the three most common signs of stroke (Face drooping, Arm weakness, and Speech difficulty) and emphasises the importance of Time when it comes to recognising and treating a stroke.
This year's theme is F.A.S.T (Face, Arms, Speech, Time) Heroes, recognising the people who spotted the signs of stroke and called an ambulance straight away, potentially saving a life.
The call to action comes after Stroke Foundation's 2024 Economic Impact of Stroke Report found that a stroke occurs every 11 minutes in Australia.
In 2023, there were an estimated 45,785 strokes in Australia, and there were more than 440,000 Australian survivors of stroke of all ages living around the country.
Stroke is one of Australia's biggest killers and a leading cause of disability. It can change lives in an instant, but it can be treated if diagnosed without delay.
Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Dr Lisa Murphy said anyone can become a F.A.S.T. hero.
"You never know when you, a loved one, a friend or a colleague will have a stroke and will need help," Dr Murphy said.
"When it comes to stroke, every minute matters. Around 1.9 million brain cells die every minute when a stroke goes untreated. That's why urgent treatment is so critical. If you suspect a stroke, don't delay, act F.A.S.T and call triple zero (000).
"Time saved equals brain saved. Anyone who can remember the F.A.S.T. acronym can be a hero. Please learn it and help us by sharing it with your family, friends and colleagues."
National Stroke Week runs from Monday, August 3 until Sunday, August 9 and is Stroke Foundation's annual campaign to raise awareness of stroke and its signs, while encouraging taking action that can save lives.
