Hobart residents have been named the most knowledgeable in the country about stroke, according to a survey by the Stroke Foundation.
The survey revealed that an impressive 86% of Hobart residents are able to identify at least one of the three most common signs of stroke, including facial droop, difficulty lifting both arms, and slurred speech.
This marks a significant improvement from the previous year’s survey, where 71% of Hobart residents were aware of one or more of the F.A.S.T signs.
Additionally, the survey found that 75% of Tasmanian residents, and 73% in regional New South Wales, 67% in regional Queensland, and 69% in regional Victoria, also knew one or more signs of stroke.
The Stroke Foundation CEO, Sharon McGowan, has congratulated Hobart residents on their knowledge of stroke signs, but says education must continue so every person in every home and workplace in the state can recognise one of the F.A.S.T signs.
“When someone can recognise a stroke quickly, they can call an ambulance sooner which means the person having a stroke gets specialist treatment faster. This leads to a better chance of survival and a better chance of a good recovery.”
“Anyone of any age can be impacted by stroke and almost a quarter of all strokes happen to young, working age Australians.”
“Recognising stroke and getting urgent medical treatment is often the difference between returning to work, sport, and community life – or not.”
