World Stroke Day: know the signs, act fast, save a life

World Stroke Day highlights the importance of recognizing stroke symptoms and acting swiftly to save a life. Stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted, either by a blocked blood vessel or bleeding caused by a rupture. In Malaysia, there are about 50,000 new stroke cases each year, with a growing number of younger patients being affected. Risk factors such as obesity, sedentary lifestyles, and metabolic issues contribute to the increasing rate of strokes.

Neurologist Hoo Fan Kee emphasizes that stroke is not limited to older individuals. He points out that 45.9% of stroke patients between 2017 and 2024 were younger than 60, and 12.7% were under 45. Contributing factors include high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, and poor diet. The National Stroke Registry found that 71% of registered stroke patients had high blood pressure, and 40% had diabetes.

Hoo advocates for weight management, a healthy diet following the Mediterranean model, and reducing salt intake to less than five grams daily.

Quick recognition of stroke symptoms and immediate action are critical. Hoo suggests remembering the BE FAST acronym: Balance, Eyesight, Face, Arm, Speech, and Time. The golden window for administering clot-busting medication is only 4.5 hours. However, Malaysia has a low ratio of neurologists per capita, which hampers timely treatment. Improving access to thrombectomy services, currently concentrated in the Klang Valley, is essential to enhance outcomes.

Recovery from a stroke can be lengthy, with the first month and up to nine months being crucial for rehabilitation. Despite this, Malaysia lacks sufficient rehabilitation centres and beds. Families must adjust to the sudden changes in their lives and learn new caregiving skills. The husband of a stroke victim demonstrated perseverance, helping her regain independence.

Ultimately, prevention through healthy lifestyle choices is paramount, and if a stroke occurs, prompt recognition of symptoms and swift medical attention can significantly improve outcomes.