Stroke has become a major public health challenge globally, leading to death and disability. However, it is preventable and the burden of stroke can be reduced with a modifiable lifestyle.
Joining a State-level media workshop here on Wednesday on ‘Prevention & Management of Stroke’, senior neurologist Dr Subhransu S Jena said, “Every six seconds, one person dies of stroke. However, in large numbers of cases, meaningful clinical intervention is not possible due to the delay in bringing the patients to a stroke-ready facility. Thus, awareness on this silent killer should start from each individual.”
The workshop was organised in the run up to the World Stroke Day on October 29. Media personality Nilambar Rath set the context highlighting that the last century was a fight against Communicable Diseases while the Non Communicable Diseases (NCDs) are the bane of this century, ringing alarm bells globally.
Public health specialist Dr PKB Patnaik said, “Among the NCDs, stroke is taking a major toll on global health and thus impacts long-term development. The media in all forms can play a crucial role in making people aware on stroke, identifying its symptoms and exploring the golden hour to save lives. Similarly, the communication professionals can influence policymakers for prioritising measures in preventing and strengthening stroke care.”
The campaign titled 'Stroke Mukta Jeebana’ (Life Free from Stroke) is partnered by ICMR-RMRC Bhubaneswar, Indian Public Health Association (IPHA), Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI) and Care Hospital Bhubaneswar.