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The ‘S-talk’ involves talking about signs of stroke, knowing what to do

It’s time to sit down and have the “S-talk.” You know you want to; everyone else is.

It’s time to sit down and have the “S-talk.”

You know you want to; everyone else is.

At least that’s what the Heart and Stroke Foundation is aiming for with the release of their most recent campaign.

The S-talk awareness campaign is a fun and quirky way to get more and more people talking about the signs of stroke and knowing what to do, said Patricia Hannah, vice president of marketing and communications with the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Alberta, N.W.T. and Nunavut.

“The big critical message we want to get out is to call emergency services as soon as you recognize any of the symptoms of stroke,” she said.

About two thirds of Albertans arrive at the hospital too late for treatments that can prevent damage, reduce disability and save lives, she said.

S-talk encourages everyone to sit down with family and friends and discuss the warning signs for stroke and how imperative it is to call 9-1-1 as quick as possible.

For every minute of delay in treating a stroke, the average patient loses almost two million brain cells.

But stroke can be treated if caught early — specifically within three and a half hours from the onset of symptoms, said Hannah. This is the critical time when clot-busting drugs are most effective.

On average, only 35 per cent of stroke survivors actually get emergency care and treatment within the first three and a half hours, reported the foundation.

S-talk wants to see that change for the better.

The new campaign features various posters, postcards and even e-cards that talk about stroke in a 1950s, Archie Comics-inspired style.

“They’re good and catchy ways to start the conversation,” said Hannah. It details the five warning signs of stroke: weakness or sudden numbness in face, arm, or leg; trouble speaking or understanding, vision problems, sudden severe or unusual headaches, and dizziness and/or loss of balance.

Even if any of these symptoms are temporary, according to S-talk, 9-1-1 should still be called.

S-talk was launched at the beginning of the month, as June is officially known as stroke month, said Hannah.

For more information about the S-talk or to send an S-talk e-card today, visit www.heartandstroke.com.

Don’t you think it’s time you’ve had the S-talk?

It’s a talk that could save lives.

rfrancoeur@www.reddeeradvocate.com