Stroke Awareness at the Forefront in May

We probably almost all know of somebody who has had a stroke. According to the National Institutes of Health, more than 700,000 strokes are reported in the U.S. every year. Strokes contribute to 275,000 deaths annually in the U.S., making it the number three cause of death in the country.

A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, causing impairment. A stroke can affect memory, movement and speech.

We probably almost all know of somebody who has had a stroke. According to the National Institutes of Health, more than 700,000 strokes are reported in the U.S. every year. Strokes contribute to 275,000 deaths annually in the U.S., making it the number three cause of death in the country.

A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, causing impairment. A stroke can affect memory, movement and speech.

In 1989, President George H.W. Bush signed a proclamation designating May as National Stroke Awareness Month to help educate the public about this condition and how it can be prevented.

Through its Sandra and Malcolm Berman Brain & Spine Institute, LifeBridge Health serves as one of Maryland’s leading providers of care for those who have suffered from a stroke. In fact, both Sinai Hospital and Northwest Hospital are designated as primary stroke centers by the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services System. This certification signifies that these centers meet the unique and

specialized needs of patients with stroke and have the critical elements to achieve long-term success in improving outcomes for these patients.

During May, we encourage you to learn more about this condition. For starters, take this online stroke risk assessment. Go here to get started.

And remember, if you suspect that someone is having a stroke, call 911 right away.

-Noel Lloyd