Examining Stroke Symptom Messages Implemented Globally: A Need for Contextually Relevant Stroke Symptom Messaging

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Neurology
• Public Health Communication

Background:

• Stroke recognition is crucial for timely medical intervention, yet symptom awareness remains a barrier.
• Standardized messages like Face, Arm, Speech, Time (FAST) and Balance, Eyes, Face, Arm, Speech, Time (BE FAST) improve recognition but face cultural and linguistic limitations.
• A comprehensive global review of stroke symptom messages and their adaptations is lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the global landscape of stroke response messages.
• To identify contextual factors influencing the adoption and adaptation of stroke mnemonics worldwide.

Main Methods:

• A 14-item survey was distributed by the World Stroke Organization.
• The survey included open- and closed-ended questions and allowed submission of campaign materials.
• Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis.

Main Results:

• Nearly all respondents utilize stroke symptom messages, with many adapting or creating alternatives to FAST and BE FAST.
• A significant portion (27%) did not translate their messaging, relying on English versions of FAST/BE FAST.
• Many alternative acronyms were direct or indirect translations/adaptations of FAST and BE FAST, highlighting global influence.

Conclusions:

• Stroke symptom messages are globally prevalent, with significant contextual adaptations for diverse settings.
• Challenges exist in applying universal messages across different cultural and linguistic contexts.
• Nurses can play a vital role in promoting stroke symptom awareness and developing locally relevant messages.