Stroke Awareness Month

Know the Signs. Take Action. Save Lives.

Every second counts when it comes to a stroke. During Stroke Awareness Month, Sharon Community Health Center is highlighting the importance of knowing the signs, understanding risk factors, and taking steps toward prevention.

What is a Stroke?

A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen. This can cause brain cells to die within minutes, making quick recognition and response critical. Stroke can lead to long-term disability or even death, but many strokes are preventable.

Recognize the Signs: BE FAST

Use the acronym BE FAST to spot the warning signs of a stroke:

• Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination
• Eyes: Sudden vision changes or trouble seeing in one or both eyes
• Face: Face drooping or numbness, especially on one side
• Arms: Arm weakness or numbness
• Speech: Slurred or strange speech
• Time: Time to call 911 immediately

If you or someone around you shows any of these signs, don’t wait – call emergency services. Immediate treatment can reduce brain damage and increase chances of recovery.

Stroke Risk Factors

Stroke can impact anyone, but the likelihood of experiencing one increases for people with certain health conditions or lifestyle habits. The encouraging news? Many of these risk factors are controllable. That means there’s a lot you can do to protect yourself and the people you love.

Here are some of the most common controllable stroke risk factors:

• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• High cholesterol
• Smoking
• Poor diet
• Lack of physical activity

By taking charge of your health, you can significantly lower your risk. That includes working with your healthcare provider to manage chronic conditions, making time for regular physical activity, choosing more nutritious foods, and avoiding tobacco use. Small changes add up, and every step you take brings you closer to a healthier future.

We’re Here to Support Your Health

At Sharon Community Health Center, we know that stroke prevention begins with managing the everyday factors that can quietly increase your risk. Our dedicated providers work with you to prevent and manage chronic conditions that impact heart and brain health with the personalized support you need. You don’t have to do it alone, our team is here to guide and encourage you through each step.

Prevention Starts with You

Stroke risk doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. There are small but meaningful actions you can take starting today to lower your risk and support a healthier future. This month, consider making your health a priority with one or more of the following:

• Schedule a checkup with your provider

• Monitor your blood pressure at home

• Make a plan to quit smoking

• Add more movement to your day

• Learn your family history of stroke