You may pat yourself on the back when you experience a stroke of luck or a stroke of genius. But the type of stroke that attacks the brain is one you want to take strides to avoid.

To help increase knowledge of what a stroke is, its treatments and warning signs, Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital will host a free community information meeting from noon-1:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 23, in the hospital's Greeley Education Center.

The hospital is located at 23845 McBean Parkway, Valencia.

There are many myths associated with strokes, such as "they only happen to the elderly" or "they can't be prevented."

In reality, strokes can affect people of all ages, genders and ethnicities. Preventing a stroke is similar to preventing other health conditions, including cancer and diabetes. It takes planning, attention to lifestyle and an understanding of the risk factors.

"Stoke is the third leading cause of death in the U.S., and the leading cause of adult disability," says Heather Flaherty, MD, emergency medicine physician at Henry Mayo.

Presented by Jeffrey Saver, MD and Sidney Starkman, MD of UCLA Medical Center, the meeting will also increase awareness of the Field Administration of Stroke Therapy-Magnesium (FAST-MAG) Trial and the use of deferred consent in the trial.

Discussion topics will include:

1. What is a stroke, stroke warning signs, standard stroke treatments

2. The National Institute of Health Field Administration of Stroke Therapy - Magnesium (FAST-MAG) trial

3. Paramedics and the pre-hospital system in stroke care and the FAST-MAG trial

4. Deferred consent in the NIH FAST-MAG trial

5. Discussion and audience questions

The meeting is free. It is open to the public and all healthcare personnel.

However, seating is limited and reservations are recommended. Attendees will be encouraged to provide their views of the study's design and performance.

To reserve a seat for the lecture, please call 818-253-8089.