Ensuring good health for all is an ongoing effort. Prevention is crucial, but preparedness for emergencies, such as a stroke, is equally vital. A stroke is a sudden, severe brain injury caused by a blood vessel blockage or rupture, making it a life-threatening emergency. Globally, it ranks as the second leading cause of death and disability, following heart attacks.
While experts work on improving stroke treatments and prevention, spreading awareness is key to empowering individuals, healthcare professionals, and communities. World Stroke Day, observed every October 29, offers an opportunity to recognize stroke warning signs and learn prevention strategies.
The government of Goa has initiated a landmark ‘Goa Stroke Programme’ which started in January 2023, as a joint initiative of Directorate of Health Services and Department of Neurology, Goa Medical College and Hospital. I am happy and proud to say that this campaign has resulted in better understanding of this condition, and a system to provide quick, effective treatment is already working effectively in the state. I am proud to say that this is a bright aspect of the Goa model of health care. It is important to understand that diagnosis of stroke is done clinically, based on signs and symptoms and based on CT scan of the brain. It is a matter of great satisfaction for me to say that both the District Hospitals and Goa Medical College and Hospital are equipped with CT Scan facility. Because of this, patients who show warning signs of stroke, can be shifted directly to these hospitals by the highly efficient 108 ambulance service, many of which are equipped with advanced life support (ALS) systems. The ambulances are available for all parts of Goa, and the service is completely free for all residents of Goa and the neighboring states.
Time, as we all know, if of greatest importance in stroke cases. Patients suspected to have suffered a stroke are to be taken to CT scan equipped facility as soon as possible. Patient confirmed to have brain clot based on the CT report, are administered with clot-busting drug within the duration of four and half hours. On the other hand, stroke patients who have incidence of bleeding in the brain, are provided with baseline treatment at both the district hospitals and referred to GMC for expert management. The hospitals are well-equipped with other required equipment, doctors and other staff, to ensure a timely and proper care treatment and after-care. The state’s hospitals also received patients from adjacent areas to received proper care.
Greater occurrence: Global data also emphasizes the heavier impact of stroke on families compared to heart disease. Statistics from 2018 indicate that one in four individuals worldwide may experience a stroke in their lifetime. There are two primary types of strokes: ischemic strokes, accounting for 80% of cases, result from blood vessel blockage due to cholesterol buildup, while hemorrhagic strokes, constituting 20%, which occur when blood vessels rupture, causing blood accumulation in or around the brain. These can result from uncontrolled blood pressure or abnormal blood vessel bulging.
Recognizing stroke symptoms is essential in both cases. Common signs include sudden limb weakness, slurred speech, facial asymmetry, or speech difficulties. Less frequent symptoms encompass double vision, loss of balance, dizziness, swallowing problems, and incoherent speech. Brain haemorrhages may manifest as severe headaches, vomiting, and decreased consciousness. Transient ischemic attacks, with symptoms resolving within 24 hours, serve as warning signs for potential major ischemic strokes and warrant serious investigation.
Experts stress the significance of recognizing stroke warning signs using the acronym ‘BEFAST,’ which stands for Balance, Eyes, Face, Arms, Speech, and Time. It’s crucial to remember that time plays a pivotal role in stroke cases. I urge all Goans that if any of these warning signs are observed, immediately contact emergency services. Swift medical attention enhances the likelihood of a positive outcome.
Risk factors: Health problems often result from specific factors. In the case of strokes, risk factors encompass genetics, age, high blood pressure, obesity, physical inactivity, tobacco use, diabetes, high blood cholesterol, and heart valve or rhythm disorders. Elderly men and postmenopausal women face a higher stroke risk. I urge everyone to be mindful of these factors and consider lifestyle changes to reduce stroke risk. Even stroke survivors should adopt healthier diets and lifestyles, including a fat-free diet, regular physical activity like brisk walking, and adherence to medication for conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.
On World Stroke Day, it’s vital for all stakeholders to unite, raise awareness, and work together toward a stroke-free world. A stroke patient should always seek care at a CT-equipped hospital, as a CT scan is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
Stroke management has made significant progress in recent years, particularly with clot-busting drugs and endovascular interventions. I’m pleased to announce that clot-busting drugs, which usually cost around Rs 30,000 per vial, are provided free of charge in Goa, reflecting our exemplary healthcare model. The Goa government is dedicated to enhancing the State’s healthcare infrastructure with new technologies and efficiency.
For stroke prevention, lifestyle modifications are essential. In summary, I encourage people to stay active, maintain a healthy diet, quit smoking, control cholesterol, and monitor blood pressure.
The global theme for World Stroke Day 2023 is ‘Together we are #Greater Than Stroke.’ The vision of the Goa Stroke Programme is to make Goa a leader in stroke care, prevention, and rehabilitation, reducing the occurrence of strokes, saving lives, and supporting stroke survivors. I am confident that we can build a future where every Goan has access to world-class stroke treatment, fostering a healthier and more resilient community.
(The writer is the Minister for Health, Urban Development, Town and Country Planning, Women and Child Welfare, and Forests in Government of Goa)
