Why is the acronym FAST not changed to BEFAST as I gather it is in America where B is for Balance, E is for eyes as I gather is the acronym used in America for stroke, or would it be too general to add BE to the acronym.

Hi Ian

Thanks for raising this question to the stroke community.  It is so important for everyone to be able to recognise the signs of stroke.

FAST is the internationally accepted test for the signs of stroke. It was adapted in Australia in 2006 and endorsed by the Australian Stroke Coalition in 2009.    There is conflicting research as to whether adding balance and eyes (vision) assessments to face, arm, and speech assessment would improve stroke detection in the community or pre-hospital setting, however we are aware that a number of stroke survivors do experiences signs that are not identified under the FAST acronym.  It is something that is continually being researched.

Health professionals are trained to look out for all of the signs of stroke, including the less common signs such as headache, numbness, dizziness, balance issues, loss of vision and difficulty swallowing. The majority of people having a stroke do display one or more of the F.A.S.T signs.      

F.A.S.T is also the most straight forward way for the general public to remember the information and recognise a stroke, and this is something we are continuing to raise awareness about.  The acronym is short and easy to remember which helps make it a common test for people in the community.  It is  important to note, if you are not feeling well and are experiencing any of the stroke symptoms call triple zero (000) straight away.

Thanks again for keeping this conversation going.

Regards

Carol Pham- StrokeLine