BE FAST
Every 40 seconds, someone in the United States has a stroke. [1]
Stroke is the #1 cause of chronic disability and the third leading cause of death in Hawaiʻi. [2]
The death rate for stroke among Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders is nearly 2.5 times higher than the overall population in the State of Hawai‘i. [3]
BE FAST in getting care to help save a life and minimize potential disability. Every second counts.
Signs & Symptoms
If someone suddenly has one or more of these stroke signs, call 9-1-1!
Balance Loss: Sudden loss of balance or dizziness
Eyesight Problems: Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes or onset of double vision
Face Drooping: Uneven or facial drooping
Arm Weakness: Weakness or numbness or unable to raise both arms
Speech Difficulty: Slurring of speech
Time: Time to call 9-1-1.
Stroke Care
- Signs of stroke is an emergency, call 9-1-1 immediately!
- DO NOT DRIVE TO THE HOSPITAL OR LET SOMEONE ELSE DRIVE YOU.
- Stroke care begins the moment emergency medical services (EMS) arrive to take you to the hospital.
- The key to stroke care and recovery is getting to the hospital quickly!
- Waiting minutes or hours to get care may lead to permanent brain damage and disability. [4]
Testimonials from Stroke Survivors
- Jean and Hilo Medical Center Stroke Activation
Hilo Medical Center Stroke Signs and Early Care
- Bel Santa Elena
Stroke survivor
“When it comes to surviving a stroke, every second counts and calling an ambulance can make a difference in preventing disability or death. Everyone, both young and old, can have a stroke, so it’s important to know what to do when signs of a stroke start. Learning the BE FAST method and recognizing when someone is experiencing a stroke can save their lives!” - Danny de Gracia
Family member of a stroke survivor, son of Bel Santa Elena
“My mother survived her stroke and fully recovered because we called for an ambulance the moment she started to show signs of a stroke. I know friends who, when their loved ones had a stroke, hesitated, and their family members stroke care was delayed. If you see someone suddenly experience balance loss, eyesight problems, face drooping, arm weakness, or speech difficulty, it’s time for you to call 9-1-1. Remember to ‘BE FAST’ when it comes to recognizing the signs of a stroke. It works.”
Partners
