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Notice to Readers: National Stroke Awareness Month, May 2002
May is National Stroke Awareness Month in the United States. Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the
United States and is a leading cause of serious, long-term disability. During 2002, approximately 500,000 persons in the
United States will have a first-time stroke, and an additional 100,000 will have a recurrent attack
(1).
New developments in treatment of ischemic stroke have shown that thrombolytic medications might make the
difference between disability and full recovery
(2), but thrombolytic treatment is effective only if given within 3 hours of onset
of symptoms. Among persons who died of stroke in 1999, 48% of deaths occurred before transport to a hospital or
emergency department. Recognizing stroke symptoms and seeking prompt emergency assistance can help reduce stroke death
and disability.
During May, several CDC-sponsored Cardiovascular Health State Programs, the National Stroke Association, the
American Stroke Association, and other federal agencies will highlight programs and activities about prevention and awareness of
stroke and its risk factors. For example, the Cardiovascular Health State Program in several states will be collaborating with
the American Stroke Association to implement "Operation Stroke," an initiative to increase public awareness of stroke
symptoms and the need to call 911 and to improve emergency and medical care for stroke.
Adams HP, Brott TJ. Furlan AJ, et al. Guidelines for thrombolytic therapy for acute stroke: a supplement to the guidelines for the management
of patients with acute ischemic stoke. American Heart Association/Medical Scientific Statement. Stroke 1996;27:1711--8.
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