What is a stroke?
A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is blocked. This can happen when a blood clot blocks an artery or a blood vessel breaks. When either of these things happen, brain cells begin to die and brain damage occurs.
Did you know?
- Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States.
- Stroke kills more than twice as many American women every year as breast cancer.
- Stroke Smart – Ted Laukemann (video)
- Ask Us Anything About...Stroke (AUAA video)
Did you know?
- 80 percent of strokes are preventable. Risk factors include:
- Atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat)
- Diabetes
- Family history of stroke
- Heart disease
- Heavy alcohol use
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
- Physical inactivity
- Smoking
Did you know?
The face of stroke is changing. Even though the overall rate of stroke is declining, it is increasing for young people aged 25 to 44, while decreasing for those 65 and older.
Read more about the changing face of stroke:
Did you know?
A stroke can happen at any age. Children can learn the signs and symptoms of stroke to help save a life! Help them be a Stroke Detective! Download the Stroke Detective book.
Learn more about pediatric stroke.
Help the Penn State Comprehensive Stroke Center spread the word about the symptoms of stroke and what to do if you suspect a stroke. Watch this!
BE FAST was developed by Intermountain Healthcare, as an adaptation of the FAST model implemented by the American Stroke Association. Reproduced with permission from Intermountain Healthcare. Copyright 2011, Intermountain Health Care.