Alarming new Stroke Foundation data has revealed Australians are putting themselves and others at risk by not knowing that a stroke is always a triple zero call.
The foundation’s most recent annual FAST National Awareness Survey found that, in the past three years, there has been a significant drop in the number of Australians who know the right thing to do when someone is having a stroke is to call triple zero (000) as soon as possible.
The share of Australians who know the right action has fallen to 78 per cent in 2023 (down from 82 per cent in 2020).
Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Dr Lisa Murphy, says this is a major concern.
“When a stroke strikes, it attacks up to 1.9 million brain cells per minute, so it is absolutely critical that triple zero is called immediately to get the patient the emergency specialist treatment they need, as quickly as possible,” she said.
The survey also found that in the event of stroke, nearly one in four Australians delay calling the ambulance by lying the patient on their side, covering them with a blanket, calling a GP or other inappropriate first actions.
“Do not delay calling triple zero (000). For every 15 minutes saved in restoring blood flow to the brain, one month of healthy life is gained.”
Every year, more than 27,000 Australians will experience a stroke for the first time and there are currently more than 445,000 Australians living with the effects of stroke.
“We want the 27,000 people who are expected to have a stroke every year to have the best chance of survival and the best chance of living well after stroke. That starts with a triple zero (000) call and getting immediate emergency medical treatment,” Dr Murphy said.
Stroke Foundation is urging all Australians to learn the FAST acronym which highlights the common signs of stroke. F is for face-check their face, has their mouth drooped? A is for arms can they lift both arms? S is for speech- is their speech slurred, do they understand you? And T is for time- time is critical, call triple zero immediately. “Call triple zero (000) at the first sign of stroke. This vital action is the first step in helping someone get the time-critical medical help they need. It gives them the best chance of a good outcome.”
