A stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain is blocked or bursts, depriving brain cells of oxygen. When brain cells are deprived of oxygen, they begin to die — every minute of delay can cost about 1.9 million brain cells, and after roughly eight minutes without oxygen, much of the damage becomes irreversible.

Key risk factors including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity increase stroke risk. Regular exercise, a balanced diet and routine health checks can significantly reduce that risk.

Recognize stroke quickly with BE-FAST:

• Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination?

• Eyes: Sudden blurred, double, or loss of vision in one or both eyes?

• Face: Ask the person to smile — does one side droop?

• Arm: Ask them to raise both arms — is one arm weak or drifting downward?

• Speech: Ask them to repeat a simple sentence — is speech slurred or unusual?

• Time: If you see any of these signs, call emergency number 120 immediately.

As of 2024, Shenzhen has 31 designated stroke treatment hospitals, creating accessible “lifesaving stations” across all districts. In Pingshan District, you can go to:

• Pingshan People’s Hospital 深圳市坪山区人民医院

Add: 19 Renmin Street, Pingshan District (坪山区人民街19号)

Tel: (0755) 84601781

• Shenzhen Pingle Orthopedic Hospital (Shenzhen Pingshan Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital) 深圳平乐骨伤科医院(深圳市坪山区中医院)

Add 1: 9 Pingle Road, Pingshan District (坪山区平乐路9号)

Tel: (0755) 23379288

Add 2: 6100 Pingshan Boulevard, Pingshan District (坪山区坪山大道6100号)

Tel: (0755) 2337 9110