Cleveland’s University Hospitals Offers Free Stroke Screenings During Stroke Awareness Month
CLEVELAND — In a timely effort to raise awareness and save lives, University Hospitals (UH) is offering free stroke risk screenings this May in observance of Stroke Awareness Month. With strokes occurring every 40 seconds in the United States, this initiative aims to educate the public about prevention, early detection, and treatment.
Strokes, which occur when an artery in the brain becomes blocked or ruptures, are a leading cause of disability and death nationwide. According to UH, recognizing the warning signs quickly can significantly improve outcomes. To help people remember these critical symptoms, health professionals use the acronym “BE FAST”: Balance issues, Eye problems (like blurry vision), Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, and Time to call 911.
“Every second counts when it comes to strokes,” said a UH spokesperson. “Our goal is to empower people with the knowledge and tools they need to act quickly and potentially save lives.”
Understanding Stroke Types and Prevention
Strokes primarily fall into two categories: ischemic and hemorrhagic. Ischemic strokes, the most common type, occur when plaque buildup narrows the arteries, restricting blood flow to the brain. These can be further divided into embolic strokes (when a clot travels to the brain) and thrombotic strokes (when a clot forms directly in a brain artery). Hemorrhagic strokes, though less common, happen when a brain artery ruptures.
The good news? Approximately 80% of strokes are preventable. Key risk factors include high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and heart disease. Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and managing chronic conditions, can significantly reduce the likelihood of experiencing a stroke.
What to Expect from UH’s Free Screenings
Throughout May, University Hospitals will provide free stroke risk assessments at its facilities and community locations. These screenings will measure blood pressure, blood glucose levels, cholesterol, and body mass index (BMI)—critical indicators of stroke risk. No preregistration is required, making the process accessible to everyone.
“Our screenings are designed to give people a clearer picture of their health and identify potential risks,” the UH spokesperson added. “Early detection is key to prevention.”
Why Stroke Awareness Matters
Stroke Awareness Month serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of education and proactive healthcare. Many people remain unaware of the warning signs or the steps they can take to reduce their risk. By offering these free screenings, UH hopes to bridge that gap and encourage individuals to prioritize their cardiovascular health.
For those unable to attend in person, UH has compiled valuable resources and information on stroke prevention, symptoms, and treatment options on its website.
A Call to Action
As Stroke Awareness Month unfolds, University Hospitals urges everyone to take advantage of these free screenings and learn more about stroke prevention. Whether it’s recognizing the signs, managing risk factors, or seeking immediate medical attention, every step can make a life-saving difference.
“Knowledge is power,” the UH spokesperson emphasized. “Together, we can work toward reducing the impact of strokes in our communities.”
— Reported by Nexio News
