Western Australian women are being encouraged to learn the signs of stroke and seek emergency medical care without delay as National Stroke Week (3-9 August) shines a spotlight on the significant impact stroke has on women.
Stroke claims the lives of more women than breast cancer, yet many women remain unaware of the unique factors that can increase their risk.
WA Stroke Director Dr Andrew Wesseldine said while stroke could affect anyone, women faced additional risks throughout different stages of life that were not always well understood.
"Stroke can affect anyone, but women face unique risk factors throughout different stages of their lives that are not always as well known," Dr Wesseldine said.
While stroke can affect anyone, women face additional risks throughout different stages of life, including pregnancy, certain migraine conditions and hormonal contraception. Older women are also disproportionately affected because they generally live longer than men.
Women are also more likely to experience less typical symptoms such as sudden confusion, weakness, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, loss of consciousness or severe headache.
"The F.A.S.T. message remains the most important way to recognise a stroke," Dr Wesseldine said.
"If you notice any signs of stroke in yourself or another person, even if they are brief or disappear, call Triple Zero (000) immediately."
Stroke remains one of the leading causes of death and disability across Western Australia, with more than 5,300 Western Australians experiencing a stroke in 2025 and more than 45,000 people across the State living with the ongoing effects of stroke.
National Stroke Week provides a timely reminder for all Western Australians to think and act F.A.S.T. if they suspect someone is having 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) immediately.
Western Australians are also encouraged to be aware of the less typical symptoms women may experience, as recognising these symptoms and seeking urgent medical care can help save lives and reduce disability.
The WA Government is investing $240,000 over three years to support the Stroke Foundation's F.A.S.T. Community Education Program, helping Western Australians recognise the warning signs of stroke and reinforcing the importance of calling Triple Zero (000) without delay.
Access to specialist stroke care has also been strengthened across regional Western Australia through the 24/7 Statewide Telestroke Service, ensuring emergency clinicians can rapidly assess and treat people with suspected stroke closer to home.
Since its inception in 2021, the Statewide Telestroke Service has supported more than 4,300 patients, including around 1,900 women across WA, improving access to specialist stroke care regardless of where people live.
