A CAMPAIGN has been launched throughout the South West to educate and advise people how to cope if a stroke occurred.
Public Health England (PHE) launched the annual Act FAST campaign on Monday, February 2, which highlights symptoms of stroke and mini strokes and encourages people to call 999 if they notice or experience them.
Since the Act FAST campaign launched in 2009, an additional 38,600 people have got to hospital within the vital three-hour window meaning that stroke sufferers receive the immediate medical treatment required.
Professor Julia Verne, Director of the Knowledge and Intelligence Team for Public Health England in the South West said: The impressive results from previous Act FAST campaigns show just how important it is that we continue to raise awareness of the symptoms of stroke.
Highlighting the importance of treating mini strokes with the same urgency as strokes can also make a huge difference - around 10,000 strokes could be prevented annually if mini strokes were treated in time.
Thats why the Act FAST campaign encourages people experiencing stroke-like symptoms to call 999.
Nikki Hill, Deputy Director of External Affairs at the Stroke Association said: We know that sadly, far too many people dismiss their early warning signs of stroke and delay calling 999. Stroke is a medical emergency and getting the right treatment fast can save lives.
The campaign will run nationally from February 2 to 1 March 1.
See the original post:
Campaign to highlight stroke symptoms launched throughout South West