PHE launches Act FAST campaign

Public Health England (PHE) has launched its annual Act FAST campaign to remind people of the main symptoms of stroke.

Stroke kills over 40,000 people a year and leaves around two-thirds of stroke survivors with a disability. Therefore, as part of the campaign, PHE is highlighting the importance of calling 999 immediately if someone notices any single one of the symptoms in themselves or others.

Research shows that 24 per cent of people would wait to call an ambulance because they wrongly believe that they need to see two or more symptoms of stroke to be sure. Other barriers to dialling 999 include feeling that they need permission to act on behalf of others.

As part of the campaign, new films encourage people not to hesitate and make the call immediately when they see any of the main stroke symptoms.

The Act FAST campaign: Face – has their face fallen on one side? Can they smile?; Arms – can they raise both their arms and keep them there?; Speech – is their speech slurred?; and Time – to call 999 if you see any single one of these signs.

Additional symptoms of stroke and mini stroke can include: sudden loss of vision or blurred vision in one or both eyes; sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body; sudden memory loss or confusion; and sudden dizziness, unsteadiness or a sudden fall, especially with any of the other symptoms.

Professor Kevin Fenton, PHE’s National Director for Health and Well-being, said: “Stroke is one of the leading causes of death in the country, and the faster someone experiencing a stroke gets emergency treatment, the more chance that person has of surviving and avoiding serious disability.

“It is crucial to Act FAST when you see any single one of the symptoms of stroke, and do not delay making that all-important 999 call.”

Juliet Bouverie, chief executive of the Stroke Association said: “We know people recognise the signs of stroke but they aren’t taking the right action at the right time. A stroke is a brain attack and acting fast makes a huge difference. You are more likely to survive a stroke and make a better recovery if you call 999 on spotting any one of the symptoms. The quicker you act the more of the person you save.”