June is Stroke Month and this year Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA), Chatham-Kent Emergency Medical Services (CKEMS) and Heart & Stroke are teaming up to ensure that more lives are saved from the effects of stroke.
CKHA and CKEMS will be helping to raise awareness of the signs of a stroke and the importance of acting quickly by placing decals with the acronym ‘FAST’ in CKHA’s patient waiting rooms and on CKEMS ambulances.
The FAST decal educates the community of the signs of stroke and encourages individuals to seek emergency care right away if they encounter stroke symptoms.
FAST stands for: Face: is it drooping; Arms: can you raise both; Speech: is it slurred or jumbled; and Time: to call 9-1-1 right away.
Stroke is a medical emergency. The ability to recognize the FAST signs of stroke and act fast by calling 9-1-1 can mean the difference between life and death, or the difference between a full recovery and lasting disability.
“Every time our ambulances hit the pavement, the FAST decals will give a crucial reminder to our community of the warning signs of stroke,” said Donald MacLellan, General Manager, CKEMS, in a media release. “We are proud to be among the first communities in Ontario to roll-out this important initiative that will help save and improve lives.”
“Recognizing the symptoms and warning signs of a stroke is key to saving lives and ensuring the best possible recovery for our patients,” said Lori Marshall, President & CEO, CKHA. “Initiatives such as placing FAST signs throughout the hospital are important for public education and align with CKHA’s vision: Together, growing a healthier community.”
Stroke is the number three killer of Canadians, and is the leading cause of disability in Canada. There are an estimated 62,000 strokes in Canada each year; that is equal to one stroke every nine minutes. More than 80 per cent of individuals who have a stroke and make it to the hospital will survive, making public education about the signs of stroke imperative.
