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Sisters Hospital Offering Free Screenings for National Stroke Awareness Month

May 11, 2010

Did you know up to 80% of strokes are preventable, yet it is expected nearly 800,000 people in the United States will suffer a stroke this year? In Western New York, the numbers are even worse with the rate of stroke death 23% higher than the national rate and 79% higher than the New York State average. Most people who survive a stroke will need some form of rehabilitation during their recovery.

To raise public awareness about the risk factors for stroke and when to seek medical attention, Sisters of Charity Hospital is hosting two free community health screenings on May 14, 2010 from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. in the Community Room at St. Joseph Campus, located at 2605 Harlem Road in Cheektowaga; and May 26, 2010 from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. in the Marillac Room at the Main Street Campus, located at 2157 Main Street in Buffalo. The events will include free blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol screenings.

Getting medical attention at the first sign of a stroke is the key to a complete recovery. Did you know?

• On average, someone has a stroke every 40 seconds.
• Stroke can be caused by a variety of manageable risk factors, including: blood pressure, cholesterol, weight control, alcohol consumption, smoking, diabetes, and atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat).
• Understanding your risk factors and recognizing the signs of stroke can help you or loved one get the treatment you need fast. Use the F.A.S.T. method for recognizing stroke symptoms:

Face – Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?

Arms – Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

Speech – Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Does it sound slurred or strange?

Time – If you observe any of these signs, it’s time to call 9-1-1.

• Stroke will cost the United States an estimated $70 billion in 2010.
• Four out of 5 families will be touched by stroke in 2010.
• The incidence of stroke in African Americans is almost double that of Caucasians.