In recognition of World Stroke Day on Oct. 29, HCA Florida Capital Hospital doctor explains how to B.E. F.A.S.T. and why immediate emergency care can improve outcomes

In recognition of World Stroke Day on Oct. 29, HCA Florida Healthcare physicians are urging residents to know the warning signs of stroke and call 911 immediately if symptoms appear.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes stroke is the third leading cause of death in Florida.

CDC data shows stroke prevalence among adults ages 18 to 44 increased nearly 15% from 2011-2013 to 2020-2022.

"Knowing the warning signs is important for adults of all ages," said Dr. Joseph Zarraga, assistant director of emergency services at HCA Florida Capital Hospital. "Every minute without treatment can mean more damage to the brain. That's why it's so important to recognize the warning signs and call 911 immediately. The sooner someone gets evaluated and receives appropriate treatment, the better their chances of recovery."

A stroke can happen suddenly, and the warning signs may be easy to overlook. Dr. Zarraga encourages Florida residents to remember B.E. F.A.S.T., a tool promoted by the American Stroke Association:

• B - Balance loss
• E - Eye or vision changes
• F - Face drooping
• A - Arm weakness
• S - Speech difficulty
• T - Time to call 911

If you notice even one of these stroke warning signs - even if symptoms start to improve - call 911 immediately. Emergency medical personnel can assess symptoms and help ensure patients are transported to an appropriate facility for stroke care.

At HCA Florida Healthcare, emergency care teams work to quickly recognize and evaluate patients experiencing stroke symptoms and coordinate appropriate next steps, including access to specialized stroke care when needed.

As part of HCA Healthcare, patients of HCA Florida Healthcare hospitals benefit from the shared clinical expertise and resources of a national healthcare network whose caregivers treat more than 60,000 stroke patients annually. In 2025, HCA Healthcare achieved a median door-to-needle time of 33 minutes, 45% faster than the American Heart Association's 60-minute benchmark for administering clot-busting treatment to eligible stroke patients.

For more information about our emergency care services and to find emergency care near you, visit: https://www.hcafloridahealthcare.com/locations/capital-hospital/specialties/emergency-care