October 27, 2026 Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker; Daniel.Hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov  Cumberland Plateau & LENOWISCO Health Districts Raise Awareness on Stroke Detection, Prevention October 29 is World Stroke Day WISE, Va. – Stroke is one of the leading causes of death in Virginia. The Virginia Department of Health’s Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts share steps for recognizing the signs of a stroke and actions you can start taking today to reduce your risk of a stroke. Approximately 80% of strokes are preventable by taking several important steps. “Knowing the warning signs of a stroke—and acting immediately—can save a life,” said Reisa Sloce, Director Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts. “Prevention starts with knowing your risks and taking steps to manage blood pressure, avoid tobacco, stay physically active and work with your healthcare provider to control conditions such as diabetes and high cholesterol. Together, we can help prevent strokes and make sure more people in our community get lifesaving care when every minute counts.” During a stroke, a lack of blood flow to the brain deprives brain cells of oxygen. For every minute that passes, 1.9 million brain cells are lost. The faster you can recognize the signs of a stroke and call for help the better the chance of survival and recovery. Use BE FAST to spot a stroke:

  • B – Balance: Are they experiencing a loss of balance, headache or dizziness?
  • E – Eye: Are they experiencing blurred vison?
  • F – Face: Is one side of their face drooping?
  • A – Arms: When they try to raise both arms, does one arm drift downward?
  • S – Speech: Is their speech slurred or strange when they speak?
  • T – Time: If they experience any of these signs, even if it seems to go away, call 9-1-1 immediately. The Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts share these lifestyle changes to reduce your risk of a stroke:
  • Maintaining a healthy blood pressure and getting it checked regularly.
  • Scheduling regular medical checkups, including assessment of your personal risk for stroke.
  • Taking all medications as prescribed. Talk to your healthcare provider before making any changes.
  • Limit alcohol consumption and quit tobacco products. Avoid secondhand smoke.
  • Eat healthy foods low in saturated fat, trans fat and sodium (salt). Reducing sugary drinks.
  • Get regular physical activity and maintain a healthy weight.
  • Reducing stress.
  • Getting a good night’s sleep for at least seven to nine hours per night. For resources and more information, visit Stroke Smart Virginia or contact your local health department directly: Buchanan 276-935-4591; Dickenson 276-926-4979; Lee 276-346-2011; Russell 276-889-7621; Scott 276-386-1312; Tazewell 276-988-5585; Wise/Norton 276-328-8000