Heart and Stroke fact sheet

- Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death and a leading cause of disability among Canadians

- Stroke costs the Ontario economy almost $1 billion per year

- The Heart and Stroke Foundation estimates that 15,000 to 20,000 strokes take place a year in Ontario and more that 90,000 Ontarians living with the effects of stroke

- The Ministry of Health and Long Term Care is serious about taking a leadership role in the prevention of stoke and the case of stroke survivors. They have committed $30 million annually to improve stroke care in the province

- The Ministry has partnered with Ontario hospitals to create a regionalized system known as the Ontario Stroke System. With this innovative strategy, Ontario has become a leader nationally and globally in stroke care

Five warning signs of a stroke

It is vital you call9-1-1 immediately if you or someone you know is experiencing any of the following warning signs of a stroke;

1. Weakness - sudden loss of strength or sudden numbness in the face, arm or leg, even if temporary

2. Trouble speaking - sudden difficulty speaking or understanding or sudden confusion, even if temporary

3. Vision problems - sudden trouble with vision, even if temporary

4. Headache - sudden severe and unusual headaches 5. Dizziness - sudden loss of balance, especially with any of the above signs