Text from João Sergeant Freitas, neurologist ecunit coordinator AVC do Coimbra Hospital and University Center. This Tuesday marks National Stroke Patient Day, one of the main causes of death and disability in Portugal. On this date, the warning is clear: When faced with signs such as mouth deviation, lack of strength in an arm or difficulty speaking, it is crucial to act immediately and call 112. Know the rule Face, Strength and Speech helps quickly identify a stroke and can save lives.
O (stroke) continues to be one of the biggest health problems in Portugal! It is estimated that approximately one stroke occurs every 20 minutes in our country! Indeed, the most recent data confirm stroke as the main cause of death in Portugal, being responsible for around 9,000 deaths/year.
In addition to mortality, It also has the potential to leave important neurological sequelae, in terms of motor skills, language or cognition. Developments in treatments and public awareness have led to a trend of improvement in recent years, with slight reduction in mortality rate, however, the overall impact remains very significantmaintaining the worrying leadership in this mortality table!
Prevention remains the most effective strategy. Most strokes are associated with risk factors that we can all control as citizens! Such as the high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, lack of physical activity (sedentary lifestyle) or inadequate diet (rich in salt, fat and carbohydrates). Strict control of these factors can prevent a large proportion of cases and reduce the burden of the disease in the population.
Despite this, when a stroke happens, time is decisive! INEM and hospitals are organized through the Via Verde do AVC to respond immediately to stroke symptoms. But for treatment to be effective, quickly recognizing the signs is essential. We take advantage of this day to reinforce and remember the rule of the 3 Fs – Face, Strength and Speech – which allows you to identify the main warning signs: deviation of the mouth (commonly referred to as “mouth to the side”), loss of strength in one arm and difficulty speaking. If you see any of these signs, you should immediately call 112.
Every minute counts: acting quickly can save lives and significantly reduce consequences, this being the critical point where everyone – professionals and the population – can make a difference.
On this National Stroke Patient Day we highlight the importance of the small daily adjustments we can all make to prevent stroke and remember the 3 Fs as warning signs that compel us to contact 911 immediately!
