American Stroke Month Highlights B.E. F.A.S.T. Signs as Minutes Matter in Stroke Response
The American Stroke Association urges recognition of stroke signs using B.E. F.A.S.T., emphasizing that quick action can save brain cells and reduce disability, as nearly 80% of strokes are preventable through risk factor management.
During American Stroke Month in May, the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, is emphasizing the critical importance of recognizing stroke warning signs and acting quickly. On average, nearly 2 million brain cells die every minute a stroke goes untreated, making early identification and treatment essential for protecting the brain, reducing long-term disability, and saving lives.
Stroke is the fourth-leading cause of death in the United States, according to the American Heart Association’s 2026 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistical Update, and a leading cause of serious, long-term disability. Each year, approximately 800,000 people in the U.S. experience a stroke, which can happen to anyone at any age. The Stroke Association is encouraging the public to learn the B.E. F.A.S.T. acronym to spot a stroke: Balance loss, Eye or vision changes, Face drooping, Arm weakness, and Speech difficulty. If any of these signs appear, it is time to call 911 immediately.
Understanding personal risk factors is also key to prevention. High blood pressure remains the leading risk factor for stroke, and uncontrolled blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity significantly increase risk. The American Heart Association and Stroke Association note that approximately 80% of strokes are preventable. Steps include managing blood pressure through regular check-ups and monitoring, building healthy habits such as eating well, staying active, and not smoking, and following the Life’s Essential 8 guidelines for cardiovascular and brain health.
For those who have already experienced a stroke or a transient ischemic attack (TIA), prevention takes on added urgency. Nearly 1 in 4 strokes occur in people who have had a previous stroke, according to the 2026 statistical update. Identifying the cause of the first stroke and addressing personal risk factors can help reduce the chance of another one.
The Stroke Association offers resources for survivors and care partners, including virtual Stroke Meetups where participants can share experiences and learn from experts. Support services are available through the Stroke Connection e-newsletter. More information and interactive tools, such as the B.E. F.A.S.T. Experience, can be found at Stroke.org/StrokeMonth.
The HCA Healthcare Foundation is a national sponsor of the American Stroke Association’s Together to End Stroke initiative and American Stroke Month. The association encourages everyone to learn the signs and act fast when minutes count.