Stroke is a serious and deadly condition if not treated immediately.
Its primary cause is high blood pressure, commonly affecting people aged 40 and above.
Worldwide, approximately 15 million people experience strokes, according to the World Health Organization, with 5 million dying and another 5 million left permanently disabled.
In the Philippines, stroke is the third leading cause of death among Filipinos, with an estimated 500,000 cases, according to the National Institute of Health.
Did you know that today, October 29, we commemorate World Stroke Day?
It was initiated in 2004 as a global initiative by the World Stroke Organization to spread awareness about stroke and ways to prevent it.
In our country, many government initiatives aim to educate the public about heart and brain health through a proper diet, regular exercise, and avoiding vices like smoking and alcohol.
There are also free check-ups and programs in city health centers in partnership with the Department of Health to monitor key stroke symptoms like high blood pressure and diabetes.
Several organizations in the country also promote a “Stroke Prevention Campaign.”
One of the most recognized ways to identify if a person is experiencing a stroke is through the FAST method: Face Drooping, Arm Weakness, Speech Difficulty, and if all these symptoms are present, it’s Time to Call Emergency.
So, if you experience stroke symptoms, don’t hesitate to visit the hospital and seek medical attention.
**VALERIE ANN DISMAYA
