Supporting World Stroke Day
On the 29th of October The National Wallace Monument will be highlighted with purple lighting to support World Stroke Day.
NHS Forth Valley works alongside the two main charities, Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland and the Stroke Association, to raise awareness of stroke prevention, treatment and support long-term support for survivors. As well as ensuring they provide patients with the best care they can.
What is a stroke?
A stroke happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off, killing brain cells. Damage to the brain can affect how the body works. It can also change how you think and feel. The effects of a stroke depend on where it takes place in the brain, and how big the damaged area is.
Stroke can be life-changing. With 1 in 4 of us at risk of a stroke at some point in our lifetime, it can happen to anyone of any age and affects everyone in different ways. Read more about the types and causes of strokes here.
Stroke is one of the main causes of death in Scotland and is the most significant cause of adult disability. There are approx 15,000 strokes each year in Scotland.
Stroke signs and symptoms
The national Scottish FAST campaign is designed to highlight the signs and symptoms of stroke and the importance of early hospitalisation.The FAST acronym (Face, Arms, Speech, Time) is a test to quickly identify the three most common signs of stroke in a person.
- Face weakness: Can the person smile? Has their mouth or eye drooped?
- Arm weakness: Can the person raise both arms fully and keep them there?
- Speech problems: Can the person speak clearly and understand what you say? Is their speech slurred?
- Time to call 999: if you see any one of these signs.
Symptoms vary between different people but often come on suddenly.
A stroke is a medical emergency. It is vital to know the signs of stroke in yourself or someone else. If you spot these call 999.
To find out more information and support, please visit;
World Stroke Day 2025 | Stroke Association
#ActFAST
