Bulgarian municipalities join national stroke awareness campaign

Several Bulgarian municipalities, including Bansko, Ruse, and Stara Zagora, have joined the national campaign ‘Every Minute Counts’ to mark World Stroke Day on October 29. The initiative is organized by the Association for Stroke and Aphasia and the Bulgarian Stroke Society.

The campaign aims to increase public awareness regarding the early warning signs of a stroke to ensure immediate medical intervention. Key symptoms highlighted include sudden facial drooping or asymmetry, weakness or numbness in one arm, and difficulty speaking or slurred speech. Health experts emphasize that even a single symptom warrants an immediate call to emergency services (112), as rapid treatment is critical to minimizing long-term damage and improving recovery outcomes.

As part of the initiative, informational materials such as posters and brochures are being distributed through municipal buildings, social services, and community centers, including in smaller and remote settlements. The Association for Stroke and Aphasia is currently in its seventh year of operation. Its founder, Dorina Dobreva, was recently recognized by the World Stroke Organization with the WSO 20 Voices Award for her contributions to improving the lives of stroke survivors.