https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/observations/the-hidden-cost-of-stroke/ > A sudden blockage of a brain artery is not only the leading cause of adult disability in the United States, but it is also one of the most time-sensitive diseases in all of medicine. > However, patient delay in seeking medical attention continues to keep patients from benefiting from interventions such as clot-dissolving medications or clot-removal procedures that can prevent strokes. Many physicians, let alone the general public, are unable to identify common stroke symptoms that should cause someone to call 911.