World Stroke Day - The 1 in 6 Campaign

Inception

On World Stroke Day, 29 October 2010, the World Stroke Organization (WSO) and its members worldwide launched its World Stroke Campaign (WSC). Aptly themed ‘1 in 6’ for the years 2010-2012, the campaign sought to bring awareness to today’s critical reality that one in six people worldwide, will be stricken with stroke in their lifetime, AND in every six seconds, someone somewhere, regardless of age and gender, will die of stroke.

The WSC is intended to give public emphasis to the widespread incidence of stroke and it aims to disseminate essential life-saving information and knowledge about actions and lifestyle behaviours that could avert the attacks of stroke. The campaign also serves to provide awareness and educational opportunities to the public on the fundamental need for appropriate and quality long-term care and support for stroke survivors, including the empowerment of stroke care-providers.

The Campaign Message

Stroke is the third leading cause of death in most countries, and is one of the leading causes of long-term disability. It is a disease that attacks 15 million people worldwide every year and claims a life every six seconds. Through the 1 in 6 campaign, WSO members and partners around the world solitarily come together to put forth this simple life-saving message on World Stroke Day.

Do not take chances. One in six people is at risk for stroke – it could be you.

Learn the facts. Save a life today. Act Now!

As part of the campaign, people are asked to commit to six stroke challenges.

• Know your personal risk factors - High blood pressure, diabetes and high blood cholesterol.
• Be physically active and exercise regularly.
• Avoid obesity by keeping to a healthy diet.
• Limit alcohol consumption.
• Avoid cigarette smoke. If you smoke, seek help to stop now.
• Learn to recognise the warning signs of a stroke and how to take action.