The 2008 campaign continued to promote the FAST test and to help people remember the signs of stroke by distributing free wallet cards.

In 2007 the National Stroke Foundation asked Australians aged over 40 what they know about stroke and 15 per cent said they did not know any signs of stroke.  This represents at least 1.3 million Australians aged between 40 and 90 who may not recognise the signs of stroke in themselves or a loved one.

Starting in National Stroke Week in 2008 we set the challenge to distribute at least 1.3 million FAST wallet cards to Australians aged over 40.

Recognising any of these signs and calling 000 immediately can be the difference between death or severe disability and making a good recovery.

FAST is an easy way for everyone to recognise the signs of stroke:

Facial weakness - can the person smile? Has their mouth or eye drooped?
Arm weakness - can the person raise both arms?
Speech difficulty - can the person speak clearly and understand what you say?
Time to act fast - call 000 immediately.

FAST 2008 TV Campaign

FAST 2008 RADIO Campaign

National Stroke Foundation CEO, Dr Erin Lalor appeared on Sunrise to talk about recognising the signs of stroke using FAST and the result of our Clinical Audit report that found only 3% of eligible patients get the clot-busting drug tPA.

Click here to watch the Sunrise intereview

View:

• Photos of the launch in Victoria , Tasmania and Western Australia.
• FAST poster
• FAST wallet card