On World Stroke Day, Saint Vincent Hospital joins healthcare providers around the world in raising awareness about stroke, one of the leading causes of serious long-term disability. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 800,000 people in the United States experience a stroke each year.

While the risk of stroke increases with age, it can occur at any time and in people of all ages. In recent years, strokes have become more common among younger adults, largely due to risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and tobacco use. Given that stroke does not discriminate, education, prevention, and early detection are more important than ever.

 “A stroke can happen in an instant and to anyone,” says Dr. Anthony Izzo, Associate Chief of Neurology at Saint Vincent Hospital. “Knowing the signs and calling 911 right away can mean the difference between recovery and lasting disability.”

A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted or when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures. In the United States, more than 87 percent of strokes are ischemic, meaning they are caused by a blood clot that blocks blood flow to the brain. These strokes can often be treated effectively when patients receive medical care quickly.

“We have specialized teams and advanced technology ready to respond at a moment’s notice,” says Dr. Izzo. “Every minute matters and the sooner a patient receives care, the better their chances for recovery.”

The CDC advises the public to act FAST when a stroke is suspected:

• Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
• Arms: Can the person raise both arms? Does one drift downward?
• Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange?
• Time: If you see any of these signs, call 911 immediately.

Timing is everything when it comes to stroke care. Early intervention can prevent serious brain damage and increase the chances of a full recovery. It’s important to know the warning signs and to seek medical help immediately if a stroke is suspected.

For more information about stroke care, prevention, and recovery services at Saint Vincent Hospital, please visit: Stroke Treatment and Recovery Rehabilitation | Worcester MA

About Saint Vincent Hospital 

Saint Vincent Hospital is an acute care teaching hospital providing general and tertiary medical services to residents of Worcester and Central Massachusetts. From newborns to seniors, Saint Vincent Hospital is built on care and has a wide range of inpatient and outpatient services, including open-heart surgery, neurosurgery, cardiovascular medicine, orthopedics and the Saint Vincent Cancer and Wellness Center. Saint Vincent Hospital was founded by the Sisters of Providence and has over a century-long tradition providing quality healthcare. It was the first hospital in Central Massachusetts to offer robotically assisted surgical procedures and minimally invasive, computer-assisted joint replacements. Healthgrades awarded Saint Vincent Hospital one of America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Coronary Intervention three years in a row, which puts Saint Vincent Hospital in the top 5% of hospitals nationwide for Coronary Intervention. Saint Vincent Hospital is located at 123 Summer Street, Worcester, MA and has a variety of medical group locations throughout the region. To learn more, visit www.StVincentHospital.com.