World Stroke Day 2024 focuses on the theme #GreaterThanStroke, aiming to empower individuals to recognize and address stroke risk factors, raise awareness, and encourage preventive actions. By promoting timely intervention and proactive measures, this theme highlights that with knowledge and action, individuals can reduce the risk and impact of stroke.
What is Stroke?
A stroke happens when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked, impairing functions like speech, movement, and cognition. Recovery may take time, and as a potentially life-threatening condition, it requires immediate medical intervention in a hospital setting.
Key Facts about Stroke
- Stroke is a serious medical condition that occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted.
- There are three main types of stroke: ischemic, hemorrhagic, and transient ischemic attack (TIA)
Ischemic Stroke. Occurs when blood vessels in the brain become blocked or narrowed, leading to reduced blood flow, known as ischemia.
Hemorrhagic Stroke. A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, causing bleeding within the brain, often due to underlying conditions that affect the blood vessels.
Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), or mild-stroke, is a temporary interruption of blood flow to the brain, with symptoms typically resolving within an hour. The blockage often dissolves on its own, usually lasting less than five minutes, and does not cause permanent damage.
- Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide.
- About one in four stroke survivors are at risk for another stroke.
- Prevention is key to reducing your risk of stroke.
- Early treatment is essential for minimizing brain damage and improving the chances of a full recovery.
- Recognizing symptoms – FAST (Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call 998) is essential for quick action.
Risk Factors
Preventable Risk Factors. These are factors that you can control or change to reduce your risk of stroke. They include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, tobacco use, lack of physical activity, unhealthy diet, and excessive alcohol consumption.
Non-Preventable Risk Factors. These are uncontrollable factors, such as age, family history, ethnicity, and gender.
On this World Stroke Day, let’s focus on prevention, early recognition, and supporting survivors in their recovery journey.
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