Stroke Awareness Month: BE FAST to Save Lives

May is Stroke Awareness Month, and at St. Luke Health Hospital, we are committed to raising awareness about one of the most serious and time-sensitive medical emergencies we face today. Stroke is not only a leading cause of death in the United States—it is also a major cause of long-term disability. But the good news? Many strokes can be prevented, and lives can be saved through education, awareness, and fast action.

The Alarming Truth About Stroke

• Every 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. has a stroke.

• Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States.

• Quick recognition and treatment are critical—minutes matter.

Strokes occur when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. Without immediate treatment, brain cells begin to die, which can lead to lasting damage or death.

BE FAST: Recognize the Signs and Act Quickly

The most effective way to combat stroke is to recognize the signs early and get emergency help. Use the acronym BE FAST to help you remember the symptoms:

• Balance – Sudden loss of balance or coordination

• Eyes – Sudden vision changes in one or both eyes

• Face – Facial drooping or uneven smile

• Arms – Arm weakness or numbness, especially on one side

• Speech – Slurred or strange speech

• Time – Call 9-1-1 immediately. Time lost is brain lost.

Prevention Starts With Awareness

While not all strokes can be prevented, many risk factors are within your control. Here are a few ways to lower your risk:

• Manage blood pressure – High blood pressure is the #1 risk factor for stroke.

• Control diabetes and cholesterol – Regular checkups and a healthy diet can help.

• Stay active and eat well – A balanced diet and regular exercise go a long way.

• Don’t smoke – Smoking doubles your risk of stroke.

• Know your family history – Genetics can play a role, so stay informed and proactive.

Our Commitment at St. Luke Health Hospital

At St. Luke Health Hospital, we are proud to be a trusted leader in stroke prevention, emergency response, and recovery care. Our expert medical team is trained to deliver fast, life-saving treatment when every second counts. We also offer comprehensive stroke rehabilitation services to help survivors regain strength, mobility, and independence.

Spread the Word—You Can Make a Difference

Education saves lives. Share this information with friends, family, and your community. Together, we can improve outcomes for stroke victims and help prevent future strokes before they happen.

This Stroke Awareness Month, let's all remember to BE FAST—because every second matters.

St. Luke's Health - The Woodlands Hospital

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