Monaco AVC will host a major public awareness evening on stroke prevention and recognition on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at 6:30pm at the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation Conference Room on Quai Antoine I…
Held under the slogan “Every minute counts”, the event aims to educate residents on how to recognise the early signs of stroke using the internationally recognised F.A.S.T. test and to stress the importance of immediate action by calling emergency services.
Founded in 2021, Monaco AVC supports stroke survivors and their families across the Principality, promoting prevention, rehabilitation and long-term care. The initiative is led by president Steven Saltzman, himself a double stroke survivor, whose experience highlighted the urgent need for clearer information and public awareness around stroke response.
What is F.A.S.T.?
F.A.S.T. is a simple, life-saving test used to recognise the early signs of a stroke. It stands for Face (has the face dropped on one side?), Arm (can the person raise both arms?), Speech (is their speech slurred or confused?) and Time (call emergency services immediately – 112 in Monaco). Acting F.A.S.T. can dramatically reduce the risk of long-term damage, as rapid treatment is critical in the first minutes following a stroke.
The evening will bring together leading medical experts including Dr Christophe Robino, Monaco’s Minister of Social Affairs and Health, Professor Barbara Casolla of Nice University Hospital’s neurovascular unit, and neurologist Dr Jasmin Kechvar. Discussions will focus on risk factors, emergency reflexes and the care pathways available to Monaco patients, who are currently treated in acute phases at Nice CHU.
Personal testimonies from survivors and families will underline the reality of life after stroke and the importance of community support. Free and open to all with registration, the event seeks to strengthen prevention efforts across Monaco, reminding residents that rapid intervention can dramatically reduce long-term effects and save lives.
Image: Studio RP