Latest figures show a lack of awareness and understanding in New Zealand of stroke signs, which will have a significant impact on stroke survivors having the best chance of recovery.
Mark Vivian, CEO of the Stroke Foundation of New Zealand, said recent research into stroke awareness in the Waikato alone has shown alarming results.
"Last month the Stroke Foundation conducted a survey of 352 Waikato residents over 45 years of age to gauge their understanding of the symptoms of stroke. Only one in five could correctly identify three typical signs of a stroke," said Mr Vivian.
"These figures are incredibly concerning because if we cant recognise a stroke from the onset, that causes a delay in getting to medical intervention and treatment, which can have tragic consequences, including further brain damage or death," he explained.
Current statistics from the Ministry of Health show about 9,000 New Zealanders have a stroke every year. Tragically 2,500 of those people die, making stroke the third largest killer in New Zealand after heart disease and cancer.
"Of the survivors, half will have long term disabilities or need significant daily support, and 15% will need full-time institutionalised care," said Mr Vivian.
"The key to reducing the risk of long term health issues or death is recognising the signs of stroke and getting the person to the hospital as quickly as possible."
Up to half of all stroke cases can be treated with clot-busting drugs (thrombolysis or tPA) if the patient arrives at the hospital emergency department within three hours of the strokes onset.
"The reality is that stroke is a common health issue in New Zealand and one in eight people will have a stroke at some point in their life. The number of strokes will only increase as the population continues to age and grow," he said.
"Our job is to educate our communities, make sure they can spot the signs and know how to act should an event ever happen in their presence. Fortunately, we have had additional funding from the Ministry of Health this year to promote our F.A.S.T campaign and create stronger awareness of stroke signs in the Waikato."
Originally posted here:
Poor understanding of stroke signs causes concern in NZ