Stroke awareness can save lives

Stroke is increasingly becoming a public health concern in Kashmir, with changing lifestyles, smoking, physical inactivity, unhealthy diets, high cholesterol, alcohol consumption and drug addiction contributing to the risk. The warning issued by health experts on World Stroke Day deserves serious attention, particularly as many risk factors are preventable through timely intervention and healthier choices. The danger of a stroke lies not only in its sudden onset but also in the narrow window available for effective treatment. In cases of acute ischaemic stroke, the first 4.5 hours are crucial. Thrombolysis, a clot-busting treatment administered to eligible patients within this period, can significantly reduce brain damage and the risk of long-term disability. Yet, awareness about recognising symptoms and reaching a hospital without delay remains inadequate. The Directorate of Health Services Kashmir’s Save Brain Initiative is a welcome step in this direction. The administration of thrombolysis to more than 150 patients and the availability of free thrombolytic drugs at district hospitals indicate progress in taking specialised emergency care beyond tertiary institutions. The facility has particular significance for people living in remote and rural areas, where travelling to Srinagar can consume precious time. However, the programme must not remain limited to a few district hospitals. Its expansion requires CT scan facilities, trained medical personnel, adequate infrastructure and a dependable referral mechanism. The proposed extension of services to Ganderbal and Kangan should be followed by a time-bound plan to cover other underserved areas. Equally important is public awareness. People must learn to recognise sudden weakness or numbness, particularly on one side of the body, facial drooping and difficulty speaking. Such symptoms demand immediate medical attention, not home remedies or prolonged waiting. Preventive healthcare must also receive greater emphasis. Controlling blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol, quitting smoking, avoiding drugs, maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly can reduce risks. Kashmir needs a stronger stroke-care network, but it also needs an informed public. In a stroke emergency, every minute matters. Saving lives requires both accessible treatment and awareness that prompts people to act without delay.