A new study is researching a quickfire test to diagnose strokes.

The West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS) is working on a project to create a lateral flow test (LFT) that can quickly determine if someone is having a stroke.

Diagnosing strokes before arriving at the hospital is difficult, with more than half of patients with suspected symptoms eventually receiving a different final diagnosis.

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WMAS, alongside the University of Birmingham and University Hospitals Birmingham, is conducting the Golden Hour for Stroke (GHOST) study to develop an LFT test.

This test would use saliva to identify strokes and help speed up access to crucial treatments like thrombectomy, thereby saving more patients.

The LFT would also help ambulance crews avoid unnecessary long journeys to specialised stroke centres.

The trial, which began in August, is funded by the Stroke Association.

The research team plans to recruit 200 patients over the next two years, with results expected to be published by the end of 2026.

WMAS lead research paramedic, Josh Miller, said: "This is a major piece of research which could have a hugely positive impact on stroke care within the West Midlands.

"It is really important that people still use the FAST test initially and still call 999 immediately if they believe there are any symptoms of a stroke.

"Ambulance crews who are taking part in the study will still conduct the FAST test themselves when they arrive on scene with a patient, before collecting a saliva sample if they believe there are possible signs of stroke.

"There is absolutely no impact on the patient care provided by us taking part in the research."

The FAST test stands for: Face weakness, Arm weakness, Speech problems, Time to call 999.

Face weakness includes checking if the person can smile and if their mouth or eye has drooped.

Arm weakness checks if the person can fully raise both arms and keep them there.

Speech problems check if the person can speak clearly and understand what is being said.