The role of children in promoting stroke literacy across generations: A narrative review of the FAST Heroes initiative

Abstract

Background & purpose: It has been highlighted that children can serve as effective messengers, helping to raise awareness to their parents, grandparents, and the broader community. Relying on this approach, the FAST Heroes program engages children as central agents of knowledge transfer, aiming to enhance stroke literacy among their families. The purpose of this review is to examine how children acquire stroke-related knowledge and subsequently facilitate its transfer to their families.

Observations: Studies have shown that family members whose children have participated in the program were able to identify common stroke symptoms and demonstrate the appropriate course of action in case of a suspected stroke. The FAST Heroes program effectively engaged children by integrating several evidence-based educational principles, such as interactive and multisensory learning. Alongside, the program follows a progressive and structured approach that facilitates knowledge acquisition and long-term retention.

Conclusions: FAST Heroes focus on intergenerational learning, creating an effective learning environment that enhances stroke literacy across generations. As the program continues to evolve and expand globally, it offers a sustainable approach to stroke education, demonstrating the lasting impact of well-designed health literacy interventions.

Keywords: Health education; Intergenerational learning; Knowledge dissemination; Stroke education; Stroke knowledge.