World Stroke Day 2026 – Recognise the signs, act without delay

On 29 October, to mark World Stroke Day, the Ministry of Health and Social Security is once again joining forces with Blëtz ASBL, an association supporting people affected by stroke in Luxembourg, to highlight two key messages: Every minute counts when someone has a stroke, and many strokes can be prevented.

On average, four people have a stroke every day in Luxembourg. It is therefore important for everyone to recognise the warning signs and understand the risk factors.

Recognise the signs and call 112 without delay

A stroke, also known as a "brain attack", occurs when a blood vessel in the brain is blocked by a clot or ruptures. This cuts off the blood supply to part of the brain, depriving it of oxygen and causing rapid damage.

Symptoms appear suddenly and may include confusion, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, dizziness, weakness or paralysis in a limb or on one side of the body.

If you suspect a stroke, call 112 immediately. The sooner a person receives treatment, the greater their chances of survival and the lower the risk of lasting effects.

The FAST test helps people remember the main warning signs: 

• F – Face: Is one side of the face drooping?
• A – Arms: Can the person raise both arms?
• S – Speech: Is their speech slurred or unusual?
• T – Time: Do not delay; call 112 immediately.

Preventing stroke through simple lifestyle changes

Many strokes could be prevented by addressing risk factors. It is therefore important to have your blood pressure and cholesterol levels checked regularly by your GP, stop smoking and avoid alcohol.

On a daily basis, a balanced diet rich in fruit and vegetables and low in salt, combined with regular physical activity, can make a real difference. Managing long-term stress and ensuring good-quality sleep also help protect your health.

A programme of awareness-raising activities throughout October

To mark World Stroke Day 2026, Blëtz ASBL, with the support of the Ministry of Health and Social Security, is organising a series of activities open to the public:

• World Stroke Day conference on 25 October, from 4 pm to 7 pm, at Bettembourg Castle.
• Free blood pressure checks from 21 to 31 October at 87 pharmacies across the country. Leaflets to help people assess their own risk of stroke will also be distributed.

• Information days at the following healthcare facilities: 27 October at the Centre Hospitalier Emile Mayrisch;
  • 28 October at the Hôpitaux Robert Schuman;
  • 29 October at the Centre Hospitalier du Nord;
  • 30 October at the Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg;
  • 21 October at the Rehazenter.

• Blood pressure screening for members of Blëtz ASBL at the following hospitals:
  • 27 October at the Centre Hospitalier Emile Mayrisch;
  • 28 October at the Hôpitaux Robert Schuman;
  • 29 October at the Centre Hospitalier du Nord;
  • and 30 October at the Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg.

• Preventive consultations on 30 October at the CHL: 10 personalised appointments with dietitians. Registration is mandatory and must be completed between 20 and 23 October by contacting Blëtz ASBL on 621 880 088.
• Charity sale of éclairs from 21 to 31 October at 90 participating bakeries. By buying an éclair or a loaf of bread, everyone can support the association.

Press release by the Ministry of Health and Social Security