Background
Stroke is the top leading cause of disability and 4th leading cause of death in Singapore. Intravenous thrombolysis and endovascular thrombectomy have been shown to decrease stroke morbidity and mortality significantly. However, these treatments need to be carried out within a limited time window from the onset of stroke symptoms. Recognition of stroke symptoms by the public  emergency measures are key points in ensuring early access to medical facilities capable to deliver hyperacute treatments. 

Methods
This study was conducted on 136 members of the public who participated in our hospital’s stroke awareness campaign day in October 2017. Participants were asked to complete a survey form which tested the following: 
a.) awareness of stroke symptoms
b.) understanding of stroke management
c.) awareness of stroke risk factors

Results
Results showed that a reassuring majority of the public had good knowledge of stroke symptoms and what to do when encountering someone with such symptoms. However, there was still a significant percentage of patients (17%) who were unable to recognise stroke symptoms and more than half of the participants (51%) did not know that atrial fibrillation (AF) was a risk factor for stroke.

Conclusion 
Future public awareness campaigns are needed to reinforce stroke symptom recognition using the FAST (Face droop , Arm wekaness, Slurred speech and Time to call for help ) acronym and to increase the awareness of AF as a risk factor for stroke.

STROKE AWARENESS: A SURVEY OF THE NORTHERN SINGAPORE