Public health experts are urging people to familiarise themselves with the symptoms of stroke, one of the biggest causes of death in Wales. Early medical treatment for stroke not only saves lives but increases the chances of recovery. The Act FAST campaign is launching across Wales to remind people about the symptoms of stroke and the importance of getting urgent medical help.

Stroke is the fifth single leading cause of death in Wales and the single largest cause of complex disability. A delay in getting treatment for stroke kills brain cells and can sadly prove to be fatal. That’s why it’s important to act F.A.S.T.

• Face – has their face fallen on one side? Can they smile?
• Arms – can they raise both arms and keep them there?
• Speech – is their speech slurred?
• Time – even if you’re not sure, call 999.

Public Health Wales has developed a national bi-lingual campaign to run across TV, radio and social media through April and May 2023.