JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Every three minutes and 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. has a stroke. It’s the fifth leading cause of death nationwide—and in Duval County, the impact is even more alarming. According to the Florida Department of Health, 55 out of every 100,000 people in Duval will die from a stroke—11 more than the state average.
That’s why recognizing the warning signs of a stroke and understanding what causes them is so critical.
What Is a Stroke?
Dr. Adeel Zia, MD, a neurologist at Ascension Saint Vincent’s Riverside who specializes in stroke care, explains that there are two main types of strokes:
- Ischemic Stroke: This is the most common type and occurs when a blood clot forms in a blood vessel in the brain, cutting off oxygen and nutrient supply to brain tissue. This causes injury and can lead to long-term disability or death.
- Hemorrhagic Stroke: Often referred to as a “bleeding stroke,” this occurs when a blood vessel ruptures, causing blood to accumulate in the brain and damage surrounding tissue.
Both types of strokes are medical emergencies that require immediate attention.
Time Is Brain: Remember BE FAST
Quick action is vital. The acronym BE FAST helps people remember the signs of a stroke and the need to seek emergency care immediately:
- B – Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination
- E – Eyes: Sudden vision loss in one or both eyes
- F – Face: Drooping or numbness on one side of the face
- A – Arms: Weakness or numbness in one arm (or leg)
- S – Speech: Slurred or garbled speech, or difficulty understanding speech
- T – Time: Time to call 911
“The sooner we can apply therapy, the better the outcome tends to be,” said Dr. Zia. “These are not symptoms to shrug off—they are time-sensitive and serious.”
Understanding the Risk Factors
Dr. Zia also outlined key risk factors for stroke, dividing them into two categories:
Modifiable Risk Factors:
These are lifestyle-related and can be controlled or reduced:
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Tobacco use
- Excessive alcohol consumption
Non-Modifiable Risk Factors:
These include factors you can’t change:
- Age
- Sex
- Race
- Genetics or family history
While you can’t control your age or genetics, you can take proactive steps to live a healthier life and reduce your stroke risk.
Take Action Today
Stroke is a major health threat—but it’s one we can fight with awareness and timely action. By learning the signs, managing risk factors, and responding fast, we can reduce the impact strokes have on our families and communities.
This Stroke Awareness Month, share the knowledge. It could save a life.
