The interactive art exhibition "STROKE ME... STROKE," a project aimed at raising stroke awareness among young people, welcomed its first visitors on the evening of 21/8.

The exhibit combines digital graphics, light, sound, and interactive installations to create a space of warning and awakening, inspiring proactive brain health awareness. The project was developed by FPT University students, with expert advice from Tim Tam Duc Hospital.

Visitors are guided through three experiential spaces: Illusion, Warning Signs, and Decision. "Illusion" recreates seemingly harmless lifestyle habits that subtly erode the body. "Warning Signs" depicts stroke symptoms and the sudden shock of an unexpected stroke. Finally, "Decision" concludes with visitors choosing to make healthy changes.

Red threads intertwined represent daily habits and behaviors that gradually connect to form a stroke risk. Photo: Stroke me stroke

The exhibit attracted visitors of all ages to learn about strokes.

Nhan, 30, who came to the event after a friend's recommendation, was surprised by the display of interwoven red threads, representing daily habits and behaviors that gradually connect to form a hidden stroke risk for young people.

"From passively watching numerous short videos, societal pressures, the cycle of busyness, poor eating habits, and even showering at night, everything was uniquely represented," Nhan said.

He recounted listening intently to a young girl explaining each area and curiously asking about the meaning of the headphones and distorted microphone sounds. He was surprised to learn it simulated the speech of a stroke victim, as their speech becomes difficult to understand.

Besides these vivid illustrations, warning signs following the F.A.S.T rule – Face (drooping), Arm (weakness), Speech (difficulty), Time (to call emergency services) – are prominently displayed on banners, urging immediate action.

For Nhan, the exhibition not only provided visual information but also allowed him to reflect on his daily habits, inspiring him to make positive changes and appreciate his health.

Visitors experience the slurred and unclear speech of a stroke victim. Photo: Stroke me stroke

Project leader Phan Tran Minh Nhat said the idea for "STROKE ME... STROKE" arose from an alarming reality: many young people still believe stroke is an old-age issue. "We wanted to break this misconception by transforming dry medical data into a visual and emotional experience," he said. The exhibition invites self-reflection on health, encouraging people to listen to their bodies and act promptly.

Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability, and its incidence is rapidly increasing among younger demographics. Vietnam has one of the highest stroke rates globally, with one in four people over 25 having had or being at risk of a stroke.

Young people often underestimate the risk, assuming stroke only affects older adults, leading them to ignore risk factors like hypertension, high cholesterol, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, a sedentary lifestyle, late nights, and prolonged stress.

However, stroke is no longer an "old-age disease." Globally, 16% of strokes occur in people aged 15-49, and this rate is rising rapidly in Vietnam, demonstrating that stroke affects everyone, including the young.

Warning signs based on the F.A.S.T rule are displayed prominently on banners. Photo: Stroke me stroke

Doctors urge everyone, especially young people, to be proactive in prevention, adopt a healthier lifestyle, and engage in regular physical activity. They recommend working and studying in healthy environments, following a balanced diet, and undergoing regular cardiovascular and brain health checkups.

If you notice any warning signs according to the F.A.S.T rule, act immediately. Early intervention within the "golden 3 hours" can save lives and minimize long-term effects.

The "STROKE ME... STROKE" exhibition runs from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on 22, 23, and 24/8 at the Quang San Art Museum (TP HCM), and admission is free.

My Y