CHATTOGRAM:  Stroke is the second leading cause of death in Bangladesh. Around 20 percent patients, who undergo treatment at public hospitals, die of the disease. Currently, there are 20 lakh stroke patients in Bangladesh.

It’s been known that around 5 lakh patients are suffering from its long-term consequences. 3 out every 1000 persons are getting affected by this disease.

“Mortality rate due to stroke is the highest in Bangladesh. The risk is double for patients who experienced it first time. Besides, the affected ones are likely to be affected with it again within a year,” according to Lancet Global Health.

World Stroke Day is observed on October 29 to underscore the serious nature of stroke and raise awareness. This year’s theme is- “Stroke cannot stop us.”

Neurology and Neurosurgery department of Chattogram Medical College and Hospital (CMCH) held a seminar at 8:00am Sunday (October 28) and also brought out a rally to observe the day.

According to researchers of Bangladesh Stroke Association, on average, 3-5 people in a thousand are getting affected with stroke. The rate of stroke patients is larger among people in their 50s.

What is stroke?

A stroke is a "brain attack". It can happen to anyone at any time. It occurs when blood flow to an area of brain is cut off. When this happens, brain cells are deprived of oxygen and begin to die. When brain cells die during a stroke, abilities controlled by that area of the brain such as memory and muscle control are lost.

What Are the Symptoms of Stroke?

Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any signs or symptoms of a stroke, even if they seem to fluctuate or disappear. Think "FAST" and do the following:

Face. Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?

Arms. Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward? Or is one arm unable to rise up?

Speech. Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is his or her speech slurred or strange?

Time. If you observe any of these signs, then go to doctors immediately.

Prevention

The best way to prevent a stroke is to address the underlying causes: 

1. Eating a healthy diet

2. Maintaining a healthy weight

3. Exercising regularly

4. Not smoking tobacco

5. Avoiding alcohol or drinking moderately

BDST: 1826 HRS, OCT 28, 2018

AH