Locals will have the opportunity to learn about strokes in a talk at Heartlands Hospital, taking place on Tuesday 26 November.

A stroke is a serious medical condition that occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. More than 150,000 people suffer from a stroke each year in England and it is the third biggest cause of death, after heart disease and cancer.

Dr. David Sandler, consultant for elderly medicine at Heartlands Hospital, will discuss how a stroke happens, the different types of stroke and how simple lifestyle changes may help to reduce the risks of stroke. The talk will include a presentation and a Q&A session.

Dr. Sandler said: “Prompt treatment is absolutely essential for anyone that has a stroke, to minimise any long-term damage. A key acronym to remember to recognise the symptoms of stoke is FAST: Face-Arms-Speech-Time. Symptoms may include the face dropping to one side, an inability to raise the arms and slurred speech. If you notice any of these signs, then it’s time to call 999.”

Sandra White, seminar organiser, membership and community engagement manager, added: “We are committed to delivering an informative and helpful educational programme to locals in Birmingham. Dr. Sandler’s presentation will provide a valuable understanding of stroke as a condition and what can be done to help those whose lives have been affected by it.”

The seminar begins at 5pm in the Education Centre at Heartlands Hospital. To book your place or find out details of the Hospital’s future health seminars, contact Sandra White on 0121 424 1218 or email sandra.white@heartofengland.nhs.uk.