WORLD STROKE DAY 2023 – Quiz

Together we are #GreaterThanStroke

Stroke is the leading cause of disability worldwide and each year over 12 million people have strokes. But there is hope. Up to 90% of strokes are preventable and by addressing a small number of those risk factors responsible for most strokes, the world can be #GreaterThanStroke.

A stroke takes place when the blood supply to the brain is cut off, either totally or partially. Because brain cells require oxygen and nutrients constantly, if the blood supply is not restored on time, the cells will start dying. This is why it is extremely important to get the patient to receive treatment as soon as you suspect stroke symptoms.

The following are some tell-tale signs of a stroke: loss of movement, feeling, and/or vision on one side of the body, combined with dizziness, confusion, and difficulty in speaking.

People who smoke, have high blood pressure or cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity are at a higher risk of suffering from a stroke. You can prevent a stroke from happening by quitting tobacco consumption, eating or drinking healthy, exercising, and taking good care of your heart.

World Stroke Day – ways to celebrate:

Focussing on leading a healthy life: Ten years back, one in six people suffered from a stroke. This statistic has been reduced to one in four in 2021. The risk has increased, so you need to become proactive in saving your own life starting now. Cut down on alcohol and smoking, eat and drink healthily, and exercise on the regular.

Getting regular check-ups: While you may be doing all the right things, it is still good practice to get regularly checked on by your physician. Have your cholesterol and blood pressure levels checked, or monitor them yourself. There’s nothing better than catching a problem early on and getting preventative treatment.

Educating the loved ones: Inform your family and friends about the importance of taking care of themselves against strokes. Educate everyone on what should be done when they think someone is having a stroke. Learn the acronym FAST: “F = Facial Weakness; A = Arm Weakness; S = Speech difficulty; T = Time loss is brain loss”. Call Medical Emergency number when these symptoms are present. Don’t wait!

Facts about strokes:

Long-term disability in stroke sufferers: Half the people who have suffered from a stroke at the age of 65 or above will have to live with a long-term disability for the rest of their lives.

Increase in obesity causes stroke statistics to climb: The worldwide increase in obesity has led to a 12% increase in stroke incidents in 15 years.

Increased recovery rate: With increased awareness and improved treatment, many patients are treated earlier and thus have a greater chance of recovery than previously.

Blood thinners as treatment: Treatments with blood thinners minimize brain damage in stroke patients.

Onlookers are more responsible: Around 66% of the time, an onlooker will get a treatment plan started for a patient suffering from a stroke.