New phase of successful Act FAST stroke campaign launches

The government is launching a new phase of its annual Act FAST stroke campaign, following the success of the initiative in previous years.

From February 27th to March 25th 2012, a series of TV adverts will be aired nationwide to raise awareness of the key symptoms and procedures involved in identifying when someone is having a stroke.

Last year, the two months after the adverts finished running were marked by a 24 percent rise in stroke-related 999 calls, as well as a 16 percent increase in stroke sufferers being seen more promptly.

The government is keen to see similar benefits from this year's scheme, due to the fact that taking rapid action to address strokes is essential to minimise any long-term damage.

Health secretary Andrew Lansley said: "The Act FAST campaign has proved it works and we are confident the Act FAST campaign will once again have a very positive impact for people suffering from stroke."

Earlier this month, the government launched a new Change4Life campaign designed to raise awareness of the link between excessive drinking and conditions such as strokes and cancer.