Recognizing Stroke Signs and Managing Risks Can Save Lives, Experts Say

Every 40 seconds, someone in the United States has a stroke, according to the American Heart Association, making it a leading cause of death and long-term disability. With approximately 800,000 strokes occurring annually, understanding the warning signs and risk factors can significantly improve survival rates and reduce disability.

A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, depriving brain cells of oxygen and causing them to die. Dr. Adrian Jaquin-Valdivia, a stroke neurologist at HCA Healthcare and American Stroke Association volunteer expert, emphasized the urgency of treatment. “When a stroke happens, every minute matters,” he said. “The faster someone gets treatment, the better the chance of saving brain function. On average, nearly 2 million brain cells die every minute a stroke goes untreated.”

The American Stroke Association recommends using the acronym B.E. F.A.S.T. to recognize stroke symptoms. B stands for balance loss, such as sudden dizziness or difficulty walking. E is for eye changes, including sudden vision loss. F indicates face drooping, where one side of the face feels numb or appears uneven. A represents arm weakness, where one arm drifts downward. S is for speech difficulty, such as slurred speech. T stands for time to call 911 immediately if any symptoms appear, even if they go away. Noting the time symptoms started is crucial for treatment. An interactive B.E. F.A.S.T. Experience is available online to help people recognize what stroke symptoms may look, feel, and sound like.

Approximately 80% of strokes are preventable, according to the American Stroke Association. Adopting a healthy lifestyle—eating well, moving more, not smoking, and attending routine health screenings—can lower stroke risk. Managing risk factors with a healthcare professional is also essential.

High blood pressure is the leading risk factor for stroke, as noted in the 2025 American Heart Association/ACC Guideline for the Management of High Blood Pressure in Adults. Controlling blood pressure through regular checkups, at-home monitoring, and following a treatment plan can significantly reduce stroke risk. Additionally, having a stroke or a transient ischemic attack (TIA), often called a mini stroke, increases the likelihood of a second stroke. Identifying the cause and reducing personal risk factors can help protect health.

For more information on stroke risk factors and warning signs, visit Stroke.org/StrokeMonth, where stroke support services and the Stroke Connection e-newsletter are available.

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