Every second counts – literally – when it comes to stroke. With each passing minute during a stroke, the brain loses roughly 2 million cells, making early recognition and rapid response the difference between recovery and long-term disability or death. Yet, despite its severity, many people are still unaware of the warning signs and risk factors. Dr. Saad Hasan, neurology clerkship director at the University of Louisville School Medicine and the stroke medical director at UofL Health – Jewish Hospital, is working to change that during National Stroke Awareness Month.

“Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide, but it can also be prevented,” said Dr. Hasan. “Raising awareness is one of our strongest tools.”

Some stroke risk factors – like age, sex, and race – are out of our control. But others can be managed or reduced through lifestyle choices and medical care. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, smoking, lack of physical activity, and certain heart conditions like atrial fibrillation all increase the risk of stroke. Dr. Hasan stresses that proactive changes like quitting smoking, improving diet and exercise, managing stress, and adhering to prescribed medications can significantly reduce the risk of stroke.

Knowing the signs of a stroke is just as critical. The acronym BE FAST helps individuals quickly recognize the signs and symptoms and take action:

B – Balance: Sudden loss of balance

E – Eyes: Sudden vision loss

F – Face: Drooping or numbness on one side of the face

A – Arms: Weakness or numbness in one arm

S – Speech: Slurred speech, difficulty or inability to speak

T – Time: Make a note of the time and call 911 immediately.

“Time is brain,” said Dr. Hasan. “The sooner we can begin treatment, the better the chances of recovery.”

While many associate strokes with older individuals, stroke in young adults is increasingly common. Research shows that between 10-15% of strokes occur in people under 45. In fact, Dr. Hasan shared that a recent study at UofL Health – UofL Hospital indicated obesity/physical inactivity as the number one indicator for stroke under age 55. The signs may also present differently in younger patients, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment.

Strokes can have lasting consequences including physical limitations, cognitive impairments, emotional and psychological distress, and social isolation, but prompt medical care can lead to significantly better outcomes. From the physicians working to restore blood flow to the brain to the medical students present during rounding, there is a whole team of experts at ULSOM who are dedicated to the prevention, recognition, and care of strokes.

“Our neurology clerkship is designed to give students ample opportunity to learn about the neurological examination of stroke patients, review neuroimaging to identify different types of strokes, and offer treatment accordingly,” explained Dr. Hasan. “Daily rounding on stroke service then prepares students to learn about the long-term management and rehabilitation process that is an important part of the treatment plan. This sets up our students to provide comprehensive, holistic care as they become physicians upon completion of their education.”

This National Stroke Awareness Month, take a moment to learn the signs, know your risk factors, and talk to your doctor about stroke prevention. Share the BE FAST acronym with friends and family – it could save a life.