American Stroke Month Highlights B.E. F.A.S.T. Signs and Prevention as Stroke Remains Fourth-Leading Cause of Death

The American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, is using American Stroke Month in May to emphasize the critical importance of recognizing stroke warning signs and acting quickly, noting that nearly 2 million brain cells die every minute a stroke goes untreated. Stroke remains 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 association is promoting the B.E. F.A.S.T. acronym to help the public spot stroke symptoms: Balance loss (sudden trouble walking or dizziness), Eye or vision changes (sudden vision loss), Face drooping (one side droops or feels numb), Arm weakness (one arm drifts downward), Speech difficulty (slurred or trouble speaking), and Time to call 911. If any of these signs appear, even if they go away, calling 911 immediately can get lifesaving care started. EMS can begin treatment en route and alert the hospital stroke team before arrival. Noting when symptoms first appeared supports treatment decisions.

Prevention is also a key focus, as approximately 80% of strokes are preventable, according to the associations. High blood pressure is the leading risk factor for stroke, and uncontrolled blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity significantly increase risk. Steps to reduce risk include managing blood pressure through regular check-ups, monitoring at home, and following a treatment plan; building healthy habits such as eating well, staying active, not smoking, and keeping up with routine health screenings; and for those who have had a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), reducing the risk of a second stroke. Nearly 1 in 4 strokes occur in people who have had a previous stroke, making understanding the cause of the first stroke and identifying personal risk factors crucial.

The association also offers support resources for survivors and care partners, including live, virtual Stroke Meetups where participants can share experiences and learn from experts. To explore stroke signs interactively, visit the B.E. F.A.S.T. Experience at Stroke.org/StrokeMonth. Additional resources, including support services and the Stroke Connection e-newsletter, are also available at the same link.

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 take action during May and throughout the year.

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