World Stroke Day: Oct. 29, 2013

Stroke–a non-communicable disease that attacks 15 million people worldwide every year and claims a life every six seconds–can be beaten, and the World Stroke Campaign aims to disseminate knowledge about actions and lifestyle behaviors that could avert the assault of stroke. The campaign also celebrates the important roles of caregivers, family and friends providing supportive care.

The “1 in 6” campaign was launched by the World Stroke Organization in 2010, to highlight today’s reality that one in six people worldwide will have a stroke in their lifetime. "With the fight against stroke at a crossroads, WSO members and partners around the world joined in solidarity to put forth a simple life-saving message on World Stroke Day: Do not take chances. One in six people is at risk for stroke – it could be you. Learn the facts. Save a life today. Act Now!"

The current theme is "Because I care..." The slogan was chosen because it can easily be adapted to any culture and any setting, according to the WSO:

 "Because I care…"

• I want you to know the facts about stroke
• I want you to learn how to prevent the assault of stroke
• I will break the myths surrounding stroke, e.g., “stroke only happens later in life”
• I want you to have access to the best possible treatment
• I will ensure that you receive quality treatment, care and support
• I will be with you every step of the way towards your full recovery

The campaign asks people to commit to six stroke challenges:

1. Know your personal risk factors: high blood pressure, diabetes, and high blood cholesterol.
2. Be physically active and exercise regularly.
3. Maintain a healthy diet high in fruits and vegetables and low in salt to stay healthy and keep blood pressure low.
4. Limit alcohol consumption.
5. Avoid cigarette smoke. If you smoke, seek help to stop now.
6. Learn to recognize the warning signs of a stroke and how to take action.

Visit worldstrokecampaign.org to read about World Stroke Day activities around the world.

See the following stroke resources on EMS World:

• Community Health Watch: Stroke Awareness
• Five Steps to Better Stroke Outcomes
• Can You Recognize Stroke in the Young?
• Study: Medics Skilled in Identifying Strokes
• Stroke Education and Recognition Programs Improve Care
• Study: U.S. Women Have Limited Knowledge of Stroke Symptoms
• Prehospital Assessment and Care of the Stroke Patient
• Rethinking Stroke Care
• Brain Attack! What to Look For and How to Deal With Stroke
• 'Not Like Herself at All'
• Time Management