One in four individuals will experience a stroke during their lifetime, a statistic that underscores the gravity of the issue. What is even more disconcerting is the fact that a staggering 90% of these strokes are potentially avoidable. This salient point emphasizes the critical importance of addressing an array of pivotal risk factors, encompassing high blood pressure, irregular cardiac rhythm, tobacco consumption, dietary choices, and physical activity. 

The Stark Reality: India's Stroke Epidemic

In 2019, India earned a rather unfortunate distinction - recording the highest number of new stroke cases globally. A recent study published in The Lancet, conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research in collaboration with medical institutions in India, Sri Lanka, and Singapore, underscores the magnitude of the stroke epidemic in the country. It reveals that stroke is the most substantial contributor to neurological disorder DALYs (disability-adjusted life-years) in India, accounting for a staggering 37.9% of the burden.

The gravity of this situation extends beyond India's borders. The study projects a significant global increase in stroke-related deaths, estimating that by 2050, the worldwide toll could rise to 9.7 million. The brunt of this increase will primarily affect low-middle-income countries.

Prevention at Your Fingertips: The Power of Mobile Health Intervention

A glimmer of hope shines through an innovative study conducted in India, published in the Lancet Global Health journal. This study highlights the potential of mobile health (mHealth) interventions in preventing secondary strokes. MHealth refers to the use of mobile and wireless devices to improve health and deliver care. 

The research conducted across 31 stroke centers in India employed a package of SMS text messages, health education videos, and stroke prevention workbooks for patients. The results show that mHealth interventions can lead to improved lifestyle-related behaviors that have the potential to prevent secondary strokes.

Decoding Strokes: Ischemic vs. Hemorrhagic

Understanding strokes is vital, and they can be classified into two main categories: ischemic strokes and hemorrhagic strokes. Ischemic strokes, caused by artery blockage, make up about 87% of all strokes. Hemorrhagic strokes, on the other hand, result from bleeding and constitute approximately 13% of all stroke cases.

Act F.A.S.T. to Save Lives

One of the most crucial aspects of stroke prevention and treatment is early recognition, as the sooner a stroke is identified, the more effective the treatment becomes. Remember the acronym F.A.S.T.: F—Face, where you should ask the person to smile and check for any drooping on one side of the face; A—Arms, where you should have the person raise both arms and look for any drifting downward of one arm; S—Speech, where you should ask the person to repeat a simple phrase and listen for any slurred or strange speech; and T—Time. 

If you observe any of these signs, it's imperative to call 102/108 immediately. Also, make sure to note the time when the symptoms first appear, as this information is vital for healthcare providers. It's crucial not to attempt to drive to the hospital or let someone else drive you; instead, call the above mentioned emergency number so that medical personnel can begin life-saving treatment en route to the emergency room.

Reducing Your Risk: Lifestyle Choices Matter

If you're at high risk for heart disease, there are several lifestyle choices that can significantly lower your risk. Engaging in regular physical activity, even in the form of light to moderate exercise, is as valuable as intensive workouts in maintaining positive cardiovascular health. 

Additionally, avoiding alcohol intake is crucial as its consumption can elevate blood pressure and the overall risk of heart disease, while also increasing triglyceride levels, which can thicken the blood and heighten the risk. Furthermore, avoiding tobacco products is paramount as smoking significantly raises the risk of heart disease and heart attacks, primarily due to nicotine's impact on blood pressure and the reduction of oxygen flow in the bloodstream caused by carbon monoxide from cigarette smoke.

Rehabilitation: The Road to Recovery

Stroke can be a life-changing event with lasting physical and emotional effects. Successful recovery often involves specific therapies and support systems, including speech therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, support groups, and the support of friends and family.

Rehabilitation is an essential and ongoing part of stroke treatment, and with the right assistance and the support of loved ones, regaining a normal quality of life is usually possible, depending on the stroke's severity.

Time is of the Essence: Acute Stroke Management

In the past, the diagnosis of stroke lacked urgency, but recent advancements in acute stroke management have been groundbreaking. One such development is mechanical thrombectomy, a specialized procedure performed by surgeons. This procedure, performed through a small artery opening, has shown significant benefits for patients with large vessel occlusions.

Furthermore, thrombolytic medication, particularly Tissue Plasminogen Activator (TPA), has revolutionized stroke treatment. Given within the "golden period" of symptom onset, typically occurring within 4.5 hours, TPA substantially enhances the likelihood of recovery.

Time is of the essence, as the brain suffers significant loss with each passing minute a stroke goes untreated. A 'stroke-ready' hospital, equipped with stroke treatment infrastructure,' offers hope, but we need more of them to cater to the vast population.

Prioritize Health Before Intensive Workouts

The rising incidence of cardiac arrests and strokes is attributed to COVID-19 and lifestyle factors. COVID causes myocarditis and lung inflammation, and stress can lead to cardiomyopathy. Engaging in high-intensity workouts without proper health evaluation by specialist Doctors can have dire consequences. It's advisable for individuals to undergo mandatory health check-ups before starting intensive workouts, and fitness centers should follow protocols to screen individuals.

Let's remember that together, we can be #GreaterThan stroke. By understanding the risks, taking preventive measures, and prioritizing health, we can reduce the impact of strokes across generations. Time is of the essence in stroke management, and our choices can make a significant difference in preventing and treating this life-altering condition.

Dr. Vinodh Kumar S, MBBS, MD( Internal Medicine)Consultant Physician & Diabetologist, Connect & Heal

NB: Notwithstanding the heading, Drug Today Medical Times has not edited the article and published it as received. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Drug Today Medical Times.