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These are some simple ways of telling if someone you know is having a stroke.

1. FACE - Ask them to smile - is one side drooping?

2. ARMS - Ask them to raise both arms - does one of them droop?

3. SPEECH - Ask them to repeat a simple sentence - can they do it or are they slurring?

4. TIME - Time is very important, if these simple tasks appear difficult, get them to a hospital straight away. The sooner they receive medical attention, the better their outcome.

STATISTICS ......

Stroke is the third biggest killer and greatest cause of major disability in New Zealand.


Stroke can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time, at any age SUDDENLY.


On average, we each have 1:8 chance of having a stroke in our lifetime.


On average 20 unsuspecting New Zealanders have a stroke every day.


If the incidence of stroke continues at the same rate as today, in 30 years time, on average 60 people a day will suffer a stroke.


This year, we can expect 1800 New Zealanders will suffer a stroke before reaching retirement age, that is, 25% of all strokes.


In New Zealand in the year 2003, there are probably about 32,000 people who have suffered a stroke at some time in the past.