Recognizing May 2024 as American Stroke Month in the City of Philadelphia.

WHEREAS, Strokes can occur in any person at any life stage, while globally, about 1 in 4 adults over the age of 25 will experience a stroke in their lifetime; and

WHEREAS, Because stroke is largely treatable when 911 is called as soon as symptoms are recognized, it is important that we learn the F.A.S.T. warning signs: Face Drooping, Arm Weakness, Speech Difficulty, and Time to Call 911; and

WHEREAS, Stroke is the fifth-leading cause of death, a leading cause of serious, long-term disability in the U.S., and the fourth-leading cause of death here in Philadelphia, despite being largely preventable, treatable and beatable; and each year, about 800,000 people in the U.S. suffer a stroke; and

WHEREAS, While it is true that some people, like stroke survivors and people with unmanaged AFib or high blood pressure, are at higher risk for stroke, any person can have a stroke at any time; and

WHEREAS, When a stroke occurs, recognizing the warning signs and immediately calling 911 could make the difference between survival and a strong recovery, or long-term disability and death; and

WHEREAS, High blood pressure, which impacts 34% of adult Philadelphians, is a leading cause and controllable risk factor for stroke and heart disease, underscoring the importance of knowing your numbers and working with health care providers to control levels and otherwise manage risks; and

WHEREAS, Likewise, having had a stroke puts you at risk for a second one; however, there are ways to reduce risk, starting with identifying the cause of the first stroke and uncovering all of your personal risk factors; and

WHEREAS, During American Stroke Month in May, and year-round, the American Stroke Association’s Together to End Stroke® initiative strives to teach people everywhere that stroke is largely preventable, treatable and beatable; and

WHEREAS, This body identifies and acknowledges that more research and education are needed to prevent and treat stroke, here in Philadelphia, across the United States, and around the globe. now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That we hereby recognize May 2024 as American Stroke Month in the City of Philadelphia; and

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to representatives of the American Stroke/Heart Association, as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body.

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