May is Stroke Awareness Month, and CDC recently released important new findings highlighting the need for greater public awareness about stroke signs and symptoms.
According to the new CDC study, Think FAST: Knowledge of Appropriate Action of Stroke Signs and Symptoms Among U.S. Adults, February–March 2025, many adults recognize some stroke warning signs, but only about 56% knew to call 911 for all major symptoms:
- Facial drooping
- Arm weakness
- Speech difficulty
- Time to call 911
These findings are important because stroke is a medical emergency where every minute matters. Delays in seeking emergency care can increase the risk of long-term disability or death.
CDC and its partners continue working to improve stroke education, awareness, and systems of care across the country. Through the Paul Coverdell National Acute Stroke Program, more than 1.6 million patients at over 840 hospitals have benefited from improved stroke care since 2008. In 2024, 69% of ischemic stroke patients in Coverdell-funded programs received clot-busting treatment within the recommended 60-minute window after arriving at the hospital.
State-level efforts are also making an impact:
- Minnesota increased timely treatment rates from 83% to 93% at participating hospitals.
- Arkansas distributed more than 25,000 stroke wristbands to support faster identification and treatment for suspected stroke patients.
As we recognize Stroke Awareness Month, this is an opportunity for all of us to help spread awareness in our communities, workplaces, and networks. Sharing information about stroke signs and encouraging people to "Think FAST" can help save lives.
What strategies have you seen work well for increasing awareness about stroke signs, emergency response, or community education?
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Johanna Segovia, MPH
Program Analyst
National Association of County and City Health Officials
1201 Eye Street, Suite 400
Washington, DC 20005
Phone: (202)-463-8617
Email:
jsegovia@naccho.org------------------------------