World Stroke Day

Did you know?
Friday, Oct. 29, is World Stroke Day. The American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association are joining with the World Stroke Organization, an international health organization, to spread the message about the global threat of stroke. This year’s theme is “One in Six: Act Now!”

One of every six people worldwide will have a stroke in their lifetime. Stroke is the third-leading cause of death in the United States and the second-leading cause of death in the world. Every 40 seconds, someone in the United States suffers a stroke. Find out what you can do to Act Now by using American Heart Association and American Stroke Association tools and resources listed at the bottom of this page.

Here’s something else you can do on World Stroke Day: At precisely 1:06 p.m., take the My Life Check assessment to learn where you stand with health factors that could lead to stroke. Then share the link with six special people in your life. The assessment tool allows you to determine your level of heart health, identify risk factors and change behavior.

The World Stroke Organization also wants you to Act Now by taking on these six challenges to lower your stroke risk:

• Know the risk factors for stroke that you can do something about — high blood pressure, diabetes and high blood cholesterol — and work to keep them in a healthy range.
• Be physically active and exercise regularly
• Adopt a healthy diet.
• Limit alcohol consumption.
• Avoid cigarette smoke. If you smoke, seek help to stop now.
• Learn to recognize the warning signs of a stroke and how to take action.

Act Now! Consumer Resources

* Learn your stroke risk
* Learn the warning signs of stroke and TIA
* Warning: Stroke Ahead – Take our quiz!

Track and control your No. 1 modifiable stroke risk factor: High Blood Pressure
* Online tracker
* Printable tracker and wallet card

* Take your medicine
* Live a healthy lifestyle
* Join or start a stroke support group

The power is in your hands to prevent and overcome stroke. Power To End Stroke is the American Heart Association’s education and awareness campaign that embraces and celebrates the culture, energy, creativity and lifestyles of Americans. Join the Power To End Stroke Movement now!

* Be an advocate – You’re the Cure
* Receive quality care
* Save a life and donate

Act Now! Healthcare Professional Resources

* American Stroke Association Stroke Library
* Take the NIH Stroke Scale online course
* Join the Stroke Council
* Get With The Guidelines/Target Stroke

To learn more about World Stroke Day and the World Stroke Organization, click here.