Act Fast roadshow to combat strokes

OLDHAMERS can learn about reducing the risks of lasting damage from strokes when a new roadshow comes to town.

The Greater Manchester Health Services will be holding a series of Act FAST: Stroke Awareness Roadshows across Greater Manchester to highlight the warning signs and symptoms of stroke.

And it will be in the Spindles Shopping Centre on Saturday, April 25.

The events are part of an awareness campaign that will support the national campaign.

Trained health professionals will be on hand at the roadshows, offering free blood pressure checks and advice on how to make simple lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of having a Stroke.

The roadshows are run in partnership with the Stroke Association and local Rotary Clubs, in the lead up to National Stroke Awareness Day on May 12.

Stroke is the third biggest cause of death and the single largest cause of adult disability in the country.

In Greater Manchester, more than 100 people suffer from a stroke every week, up to 6,000 people a year. Dr. Peter Elton, director of public health, NHS Bury, said: “We know that a quicker response to the early signs of stroke will increase the number of people who remain independent. This will complement measures to prevent stroke.

“It is vital that people throughout Greater Manchester reduce their salt intake and have their blood pressure checked so they can be treated if necessary.

“This will support the national campaign to reduce the number of people having strokes.”

The national Act FAST campaign, which stands for Face, Arm, Speech, Time to call 999, is a simple approach to raise awareness.

Angela Walkden, regional manager for the Stroke Association in the North-West, said: “Strokes can affect anyone at any time in their lives and with little warning.

“A person may be at home with family, or at work, so it is vitally important that as many people as possible know what to look out for and act FAST.”