Re-imagining F.A.S.T: Community-led co-design of a culturally responsive early warning stroke message, to improve stroke outcomes for First Nations peoples.
Early recognition of stroke symptoms
Stroke accounts for 20% of cardiovascular-related deaths in Australia. Regional and rural Australians are 17% more likely to experience stroke than those in metropolitan areas, with access to emergency treatment and stroke unit care limited. Rates of stroke are approximately three times higher among Australia’s First Nations peoples, and hospital admissions almost two times higher than non-First Nations peoples. Concerningly, First Nations peoples are more likely to suffer stroke at a younger age (average 53 years), and at greater risk of dying from stroke than non-First Nations peoples .
Early recognition of stroke symptoms is critical for people to access acute, time-sensitive hospital treatment, however awareness of symptoms is limited. Given the nationwide disparity in stroke incidence and outcomes, a need exists to improve awareness and understanding of stroke symptoms, supporting improved recovery outcomes of First Nations stroke survivors.
Culturally responsive resources for early stroke detection
Through a community-led approach, using cross cultural Yarning and arts-based methods, this project aims to develop a culturally safe and relevant early warning signs of stroke message unique to each participating First Nations community across four LHD’s in NSW. In collaboration with local and Aboriginal Controlled health services, First Nations stroke survivors will come together to develop culturally responsive promotional resources designed to enhance understanding of the early warning signs of stroke, prompting early response to increase access to time-sensitive treatment.