The day aims to raise awareness about stroke prevention, early detection and treatment.
The day established by the World Stroke Organization (WSO) in 2006; the 2026 campaign message is “Every M1nute Counts”, using #ActFAST.
Stroke occurs due to blocked blood flow to the brain (ischaemic stroke) or bleeding caused by a ruptured blood vessel (haemorrhagic stroke).
Globally, over 12 million people experience a stroke annually; India records an estimated 108–172 cases per 1 lakh people each year.
Major risk factors include hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, heart disease, smoking and physical inactivity; immediate medical attention can reduce complications.