Mallee residents in Australia’s top 10 for key stroke risk factor

The Mallee electorate has claimed a top 10 Australian ranking, but it is one that residents are being encouraged to change.

A recent Deloitte study found 17 per cent of the Mallee population over the age of 15 has high cholesterol, placing the electorate 7th highest in Australia. That equates to an estimated 21,313 people which is concerning as high cholesterol is one of the most modifiable stroke risk factors of stroke.
Unfortunately awareness that high cholesterol is a key risk factor is dropping in Mallee – something Stroke Foundation would like to change.

Every year, Stroke Foundation surveys thousands of Australians on their awareness of the most common signs and risks of stroke.

The most recent F.A.S.T survey of 5,000 people, conducted between August 8 and September 6 2021, revealed the Mallee electorate’s awareness of high cholesterol as a risk factor has declined by eight per cent since 2020, and is also lower than Victoria overall.

Stroke Foundation Acting Chief Executive Officer, Dr Lisa Murphy, says by turning this number around, strokes can be prevented.

“We know that 80 per cent of strokes are preventable. Awareness is key to prevention and treatment so it’s important that people recognise the risk factors like high cholesterol, high blood pressure and smoking, so they can make lifestyle changes where applicable and reduce their risk of having a stroke.”

Dr Murphy says there are several things that can be done to lower high cholesterol.

“Firstly, speak to your doctor about your current cholesterol level and what you should aim for to reduce your risk of stroke. Eating a healthy diet that is low in saturated fats and high in fruit and vegetables, being physically active, not smoking and limiting alcohol intake are all steps that can be taken.”

The annual F.A.S.T survey also found when it comes to recognising the signs of stroke (Facial droop, inability to lift both Arms and slurred Speech), Mallee residents are lagging.

The Mallee electorate performed the worst when it comes to recognising three of the F.A.S.T signs of stroke, with only four per cent of those surveyed able to do so. Also, 39 per cent of Mallee residents could not recall any of the F.A.S.T signs of stroke without being prompted.

Dr Murphy says while the numbers are concerning, they can be changed through a community effort.

“Stroke Foundation’s aim is for someone in every workplace and household to know the F.A.S.T acronym. I’d encourage everyone to learn the signs and share it with their friends and family because we know this acronym saves lives and leads to better treatment and recovery.”