Luxembourg's Ministry of Health and Social Security has announced that it is once again joining forces with Blëtz ASBL, an association supporting people affected by stroke in Luxembourg, to mark World Stroke Day on Thursday 29 October 2026 and highlight two key messages: when a stroke occurs, every minute counts, and a large proportion of strokes can be prevented.

According to the ministry, an average of four people suffer a stroke every day in Luxembourg, making awareness of the warning signs and risk factors important for everyone.

Recognising the signs and calling 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. Part of the brain is then deprived of blood supply and, without oxygen, rapidly suffers damage.

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

At the slightest suspicion of a stroke, 112 should be called immediately. The faster medical care is provided, the greater the chances of survival and the more the lasting effects can be limited.

The FAST test helps people remember the main warning signs:

  • F for Face: Is one side of the face drooping?
  • A for Arm: Does the person have difficulty raising one arm?
  • S for Speech: Is their speech confused or unusual?
  • T for Time: Do not waste a second; call 112.

Preventing strokes through simple habits

According to the ministry, many strokes could be prevented by addressing risk factors. It recommends having blood pressure and cholesterol levels regularly monitored by a general practitioner, giving up smoking and avoiding alcoholic drinks.

A balanced diet rich in fruit and vegetables and low in salt, together with regular physical activity, can also make a difference. Limiting long-term stress and ensuring good-quality sleep also help protect health.

An awareness programme throughout October

For 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 Sunday 25 October, from 16:00 to 19:00, at Bettembourg Castle.
  • Free blood pressure measurements from Wednesday 21 to Saturday 31 October at 87 pharmacies across the country. Leaflets allowing people to assess their personal risk of stroke will also be distributed.
  • Information days at the following institutions:
    • Wednesday 21 October at Rehazenter;
    • Tuesday 27 October at Centre Hospitalier Emile Mayrisch;
    • Wednesday 28 October at Hôpitaux Robert Schuman;
    • Thursday 29 October at Centre Hospitalier du Nord;
    • Friday 30 October at Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg.
  • High blood pressure screening available to members of Blëtz ASBL at the following hospitals:
    • Tuesday 27 October at Centre Hospitalier Emile Mayrisch;
    • Wednesday 28 October at Hôpitaux Robert Schuman;
    • Thursday 29 October at Centre Hospitalier du Nord;
    • Friday 30 October at Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg.
  • Prevention consultations on Friday 30 October at Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg (CHL): ten personalised appointments with dietitians. Registration is compulsory and must be completed between Tuesday 20 and Friday 23 October through Blëtz ASBL on 62188-0088.
  • Charity sale of éclairs from Wednesday 21 to Saturday 31 October at 90 participating bakeries. By purchasing an éclair or a loaf of bread, members of the public can support the association.