28 April 2023
Act FAST to help save lives
Acting FAST has never been more important than when it comes to stroke.
In association with NHS England, we supported the relaunch of the Act FAST stroke campaign this February, which raised awareness on the signs to look for when it comes to stroke – with powerful adverts highlighting why urgent action is needed when it comes to stroke, by calling 999 if someone is experiencing symptoms, to help save lives.
But what does it mean to Act FAST? We explain below…
What is the act FAST test?
The act FAST test helps you to remember the most common signs of stroke: changes to the face (F), arms (A) and speech (S) – then it’s (T) – time to call 999.
Why is it so important to act FAST?
A stroke is a medical emergency, and every minute is critical. Treatment for strokes are time sensitive so getting the best treatment in the quickest time is key to survival and recovery.
There are more than 100,000 strokes in the UK every year. That’s around 1 stroke every 5 minutes.
Stroke is a leading cause of adult disability and accounts for roughly 75% of deaths from cerebrovascular disease.
If you spot any of the signs of a stroke in you or someone else, it’s vital to call 999 straight away. Mini strokes are the same as a stroke but the symptoms last a short time and they must be treated with the same urgency as strokes.
Acting FAST is the biggest and most important thing you can do to save a life and prevent people from severe disability from stroke.
Are there any other symptoms of stroke?
The FAST test helps to spot the three most common symptoms of stroke. But there are other signs that you should always take seriously.
These include:
- Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, including legs, hands or feet.
- Difficulty finding words or speaking in clear sentences.
- Sudden blurred vision or loss of sight in one or both eyes.
- Sudden memory loss or confusion, and dizziness or a sudden fall.
- A sudden, severe headache
For further information on why we need to Act FAST, visit the Stroke Association or NHS websites.
Our partnership with LoSalt has also been encouraging people to Act FAST, with special promotional tubs educating on the signs to look for when it comes to stroke. For further information on this activity, and how LoSalt have helped raise vital funds for the charity, here