CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QC Life) - May is National Stroke Awareness Month, and Kelsie Pupazan, a Stroke Coordinator and Registered Nurse at Piedmont Medical Center Rock Hill, is here to help us understand why stroke education matters. Strokes happen fast—every 40 seconds in the U.S.—and they’re the fifth leading cause of death. But here’s the hopeful news: up to 80% of strokes are preventable. Kelsie encourages everyone to learn the BEFAST signs (Balance, Eyes, Face, Arms, Speech, Time) so you can act quickly if something feels off.
She also shares that simple lifestyle habits can go a long way. Staying active, choosing heart-healthy foods like those in the Mediterranean diet, and managing conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes all help lower risk. Most importantly, if you or someone near you shows signs of a stroke, don’t wait—call 911 right away.
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