Around 350,000 people in Pakistan suffer from strokes every year, experts

 

KARACHI: Stroke Neurologists have said that based on available data, an estimate indicates that around 350,000 people in Pakistan suffer from stroke attack each year, out of which approximately 40% of them succumb to death. Stroke is very common in Pakistan and the mortality rate associated with it is quite high. They said these while delivering a message at an awareness walk organized on the occasion of World Stroke Day.The walk began at the entrance of the Dr. Ishrat-ul-Ibad Khan OT Complex and concluded at the OPD Block, led by Principal of Dow International Medical College, Professor Dr. Iftikhar Ahmed.On this occasion Dr. Tariq Farman, Director Dow Institute of Cardiology, Professor Dr. Naila Naeem Shahbaz, Associate Professor Dr Jawwad us Salam, Director OPDs Dr. Rustam Zaman and a large number of doctors and faculty members were present. Additionally, volunteers from Rescue 1122, along with an ambulance and bikes, also joined the awareness walk. Speaking at Dow University Hospital, stroke neurologist Dr. Inam e Khuda stated that they have established stroke units and are utilizing advanced technology at Dow University. He mentioned that stroke awareness walk was organized as part of this effort. He emphasized that raising awareness about strokes is very important because 90% of cases are preventable. Dr. Inaam emphasized that to prevent strokes, it's essential to control blood pressure and diabetes, reduce cholesterol levels, consume fruits and vegetables, and avoid fatty foods. He advised that individuals over the age of 30 should check their blood sugar levels at least once a year to help prevent strokes. Additionally, he recommended daily 30-minute walks and avoiding intoxicants, such as cigarettes, betel nuts, gutka, and vaping. Dr. Inaam explained that in 70 to 80 percent of cases, blood vessels become narrowed, and a blood clot obstructs the blood flow, preventing blood from reaching other organs.

He further mentioned that when a patient suffers a stroke, treatment time is critically important. If blood cannot reach the brain promptly, the affected part becomes paralyzed. Therefore, it is crucial to get the patient to the hospital as soon as possible. He said that the first 4 to 4.5 hours are essential for administering a specific injection and treatment for stroke. Additionally, Dr. Tariq Farman mentioned that every year, 12 million people suffer from strokes worldwide, with 6 million of them succumbing to deaths. In Pakistan, this number is around 300,000, and even if stroke patients survive, they often become disabled and require significant care. Therefore, adopting a healthy lifestyle is essential to prevent strokes and heart attacks. In the end, participants were served fruits and juices as a healthy snack.