On World Stroke Day, MetroWest Medical Center joins healthcare providers around the world in raising awareness about stroke, one of the leading causes of serious long-term disability. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 800,000 people in the United States experience a stroke each year.

While the risk of stroke increases with age, it can occur at any time and in people of all ages. In recent years, strokes have become more common among younger adults, largely due to risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and tobacco use. Given that stroke does not discriminate, education, prevention, and early detection are more important than ever.

“A stroke can happen in an instant and to anyone,” said Dr. Anthony Izzo, Neurologist and Medical Director for the Stroke Program at MetroWest Medical Center. “Knowing the signs and calling 911 right away can mean the difference between recovery and lasting disability.”

A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted or when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures. In the United States, more than 87 percent of strokes are ischemic, meaning they are caused by a blood clot that blocks blood flow to the brain. These strokes can often be treated effectively when patients receive medical care quickly.

“We have specialized teams and advanced technology ready to respond at a moment’s notice,” said Dr. Izzo. “Every minute matters and the sooner a patient receives care, the better their chances for recovery.”

The CDC advises the public to act FAST when a stroke is suspected:

• Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
• Arms: Can the person raise both arms? Does one drift downward?
• Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange?
• Time: If you see any of these signs, call 911 immediately.

Timing is everything when it comes to stroke care. Early intervention can prevent serious brain damage and increase the chances of a full recovery. It’s important to know the warning signs and to seek medical help immediately if a stroke is suspected.

For more information about stroke care, prevention, and recovery services at MetroWest Medical Center, please visit: Stroke Treatment and Stroke Care at MetroWest

About MetroWest Medical Center 

MetroWest Medical Center is a teaching community health care system serving the greater MetroWest region of Massachusetts. For more than 125 years, the hospital has provided services in two locations: Framingham Union Hospital, a full-service acute care hospital in Framingham, and Leonard Morse Hospital, a behavioral health facility in Natick. MetroWest Medical Center is committed to meeting the health care needs of the area residents by providing advanced medicine and personalized care, right in the local community. In 2023, Healthgrades® named MetroWest Medical Center one of America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Coronary Intervention Award™, which puts MetroWest Medical Center in the top 5% of hospitals nationwide for Coronary Intervention. In 2024, MetroWest Medical Center was awarded a 5-Star Recipient for Treatment of Pulmonary Embolism by Healthgrades®. To learn more, visit www.mwmc.com.