F.A.S.T. vs. BE-FAST: Which Stroke Warning Acronym Works Best?
When it comes to quickly identifying and responding to stroke symptoms, both the F.A.S.T. and BE-FAST acronyms have shown effectiveness in encouraging people to call 911. However, a recent study suggests that the F.A.S.T. acronym might be more successful in helping people recall key stroke warning signs.
Understanding the Acronyms
The F.A.S.T. acronym stands for Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and Time to call emergency services. On the other hand, the BE-FAST acronym adds Balance problems and Eye trouble to the existing symptoms, aiming to detect posterior circulation strokes more accurately.
The Study Details
Research presented at the American Stroke Association’s International Stroke Conference 2025, held in Los Angeles from February 5 to 7, 2025, delved into the effectiveness of these acronyms in a national online survey of English-speaking participants. The study included 1,900 participants who were randomly assigned to either the F.A.S.T. or BE-FAST group and shown a brief educational video.
“This research blends health care terminology, methods, and randomized approaches to identify how we can most effectively deliver messages to the public in a way that will allow us to reduce the burden of stroke,” shared Opeolu Adeoye, M.D., M.S., FAHA, the study’s lead author and chair of the Department of Emergency Medicine at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.
F.A.S.T. vs. BE-FAST: The Results
After reviewing the findings, it was clear that both groups saw an increased likelihood of calling 911 after watching the educational video. Approximately 90% of participants from both groups were willing to call 911 if they suspected a stroke, compared to about 70% before watching the video.
However, the F.A.S.T. acronym performed better in terms of symptom recall. Immediately after the video, 70% of participants in the F.A.S.T. group correctly identified the symptoms represented by F, A, and S, compared to 50% in the BE-FAST group. At 30 days, the recall rate for the F.A.S.T. group dropped to 50%, while it fell to 40% for the BE-FAST group.
Why F.A.S.T. Over BE-FAST?
The additional symptoms included in the BE-FAST acronym—balance problems and eye trouble—seemed to complicate overall recall effectiveness. Dr. Adeoye emphasized that while healthcare professionals might want to provide the most comprehensive warning signs, longer acronyms can make it harder for the public to remember critical symptoms like face drooping, arm weakness, and speech difficulties.
Stroke Awareness: The Importance of Quick Recognition
Each year, around 800,000 people in the United States suffer from a stroke. Immediate treatment is crucial for minimizing long-term effects and potentially saving lives. Despite improved stroke awareness in recent years, there is still a significant need for increased public education.
The American Stroke Association currently uses F.A.S.T. as its primary mnemonic. However, some healthcare systems are transitioning to BE-FAST, hoping to capture a broader range of stroke symptoms. This research indicates that although additional symptoms are essential, they should be communicated in a way that doesn’t overwhelm the public.
Next Steps
The findings of this study highlight the need for a balance between comprehensive and easily rememberable information in public health campaigns. Future research may help refine stroke education methods to improve both symptom recognition and timely action.
“It is critically important that there is recognition of stroke signs and symptoms by the general public,” explained Dr. Adeoye. “The more people are aware of the stroke warning signs, the better we may activate the processes needed to ensure patients get care as quickly as possible.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both F.A.S.T. and BE-FAST can promote early stroke intervention, the F.A.S.T. acronym appears more effective in helping people recall the essential warning signs. This research underscores the importance of clear communication in public health education. Stay informed and remember to act quickly if you or someone you know exhibits signs of a stroke.
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