De La Hunt Media - KK Radio Network

To help raise awareness about stroke in Minnesota, Gov. Mark Dayton has proclaimed May as Stroke Awareness Month in Minnesota. Stroke is the third leading cause of death in Minnesota, with 2,154 deaths in 2010, according to the Minnesota Department of Health. During the 2010 year, more than 75,000 Minnesotans (1.9% of adults) reported they have had a stroke in their lifetime. Dr. Ed Ehlinger, Minnesota Commisioner of Health urges Minnesotans to learn the warning signs and symptoms of a stroke. “When it comes to strokes, we say that time lost is brain lost,” Ehlinger said. “That’s why it is critical for Minnesotans to know the signs and symptoms of a stroke and to call 9-1-1 at the first sign of symptoms.” There are several signs and symptoms which include, sudden confusion or trouble speaking, weakness of the face, arm or leg, trouble seeing in one or both eyes, along with other symptoms. If you think that you or someone else is having a stroke, the best thing to do is call 9-1-1 immediately. For more information about stroke and its risk factors, MDH’s Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention Unit shares insight at www.health.state.mn.us/cvh/.