THE AMERICAN STROKE ASSOCIATION, a DIVISION of THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION, LAUNCHES NEW PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT to RAISE AWARENESS of THE SPANISH STROKE ACRONYM R.Á.P.I.D.O. AND SAVE LIVES

When someone has a stroke every second counts. Identifying the five warning signs of stroke and quickly calling 911 can be the difference between life and death.

According to recent data from the American Stroke Association, only 42% of Hispanic-Latinos could correctly name two out of the five stroke warning signs unaided.

This important new PSA promotes the use of R.Á.P.I.D.O., a newly developed, culturally relevant Spanish acronym, to raise awareness of common stroke symptoms.

By airing this PSA you’re helping to close the gap between knowledge and action, empowering your communities to learn the stroke warning signs and help save lives.

This easy-to-remember acronym stands for:

R - Rostro caído​ (Face drooping)
Á - Alteración del equilibrio​ (Loss of Balance, or Lack of Coordination)
P - Pérdida de fuerza en el brazo​ (Arm weakness)
I - Impedimento visual repentino​ (Sudden vision difficulty)
D - Dificultad para hablar​ (Slurred or Strange Speech)
O - Obtén ayuda, llama al 911 (Get help, call 911)

To learn more visit, stroke.org/rapido