Stroke FAST

Stroke is the leading cause of disability in Aotearoa New Zealand. Over 9,000 people experience a stroke every year.

Prompt action can save lives and improve recovery. The F.A.S.T campaign encourages everyone to:

• learn the key signs of stroke
• think F.A.S.T and act fast
• look out for each other by calling 111 if they suspect a stroke.

Previous iterations of this campaign ran in 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2020. The campaign is a collaboration between the Ministry of Health, Health Promotion, and the Stroke Foundation of New Zealand.

• A stroke is a brain attack when blood supply to part of the brain is cut off.
• A stroke is always a medical emergency. Call 111 immediately.
• A stroke can happen to anyone at any time. It could be someone you know or the person next to you, including someone younger than expected.
• It is important to recognise when someone is having a stroke and to start medical treatment as soon as possible because fast treatment can reduce brain damage and mean better outcomes.
• Even if you are not sure it is a stroke, it is important to call 111 immediately if you see any of the signs.
•  Acting F.A.S.T can save lives, give people the best chance of recovery, and reduce ongoing costs from stroke to families, caregivers and communities.

Acting F.A.S.T

F.A.S.T is a mnemonic used internationally to help people remember some signs of stroke.

Face: is their face drooping on one side?

Arm: is one arm weak?

Speech: is their speech jumbled, slurred or lost?

Take Action: act fast and call 111 immediately if you see any of these signs.

Delayed recognition of a stroke means delayed intervention, which can have serious consequences including further damage to the brain, or death. If there are any signs of a stroke, a person should go to hospital as soon as possible so they can be assessed and treated.

More information is available on the Stroke Foundation website. Campaign resources are also available.