NHW readers know that children can safely operate a defibrillator in case of a heart emergency. Now, a new study suggests that young people can help save lives when stroke strikes, too.

Initial results show that seventh graders participating in the ongoing Kids Identifying and Defeating Stroke (KIDS) project were more likely to say they would call 911 upon witnessing stroke symptoms than students who were not involved in the program. Calling 911 immediately is crucial in determining stroke outcome. Currently, few patients receive early treatment because they arrive at hospitals too late.

You can take steps to improve the odds of surviving stroke in your community. Urge AED, CPR, and stroke education in local schools. Encourage family, friends, and neighbors to keep a log of their blood pressure levels and to identify local hospitals that are best equipped to treat strokes. For a list of certified stroke centers, computer users can log on to www.jointcommission.org. Click on "general public" and then "disease treatments."