In a successful effort to raise awareness about stroke prevention and treatment, Manipal Hospital Sarjapur hosted an insightful event titled “BE FAST TO BEAT THE STROKE – Learn the Signs, Save a Life” on World Stroke Day 2024. The event took place at the 10th Floor Café Area of Manipal Hospital Sarjapur, beginning at 10:30 AM, and focused on educating the public about recognizing early signs of a stroke and the importance of timely medical intervention to save lives.

With the participation of renowned neurologists, stroke survivors, and their families, the event highlighted personal recovery journeys, alongside life-saving strategies for identifying and treating strokes effectively. The discussions centered on the BE FAST acronym—Balance, Eyes, Face, Arms, Speech, and Time—which helps detect early signs of a stroke, and covered breakthroughs in stroke treatments and rehabilitation. The event encouraged the community to act swiftly and seek immediate medical help, underscoring the importance of quick response in improving outcomes and saving lives during a stroke.

The expert panel included Dr. Shiva Kumar R, Head & Senior Consultant – Neurology, Dr. Lakshmi Krishna, Consultant – Neurology, Dr. Aditya Kulkarni, Consultant – Neurology, and Dr. Swati Patil, Associate Consultant – Neurology. These leading professionals provided valuable insights into early diagnosis, effective treatments, and the power of rehabilitation in improving patient outcomes.

Commenting on the significance of rapid stroke intervention, Dr. Shiva Kumar R remarked, “Every second counts when it comes to stroke. Immediate medical intervention can significantly reduce brain damage and increase the chances of recovery. Events like these are crucial in empowering people with the knowledge needed to act quickly and save lives.”

Highlighting the importance of recognizing stroke symptoms, Dr. Lakshmi Krishna noted, “Strokes can happen to anyone, regardless of age or fitness level. By recognizing the signs early, we can prevent the devastating long-term effects that often accompany delayed treatment.”

Discussing advancements in stroke care, Dr. Aditya Kulkarni added, “Stroke treatment has advanced considerably, and with timely care, we can often minimize the damage. Public awareness is the first step towards reducing the prevalence and impact of strokes in our community.”

Focusing on the emotional aspects of stroke recovery, Dr. Swati Patil emphasized that stroke rehabilitation is not just about regaining lost abilities; it’s about rebuilding lives. Every step in recovery, no matter how small, is a victory. With the right support and determination, stroke survivors can achieve remarkable progress. Let’s work together to ensure every survivor has access to the care and resources they need to thrive.”

The “BE FAST TO BEAT THE STROKE” event fostered collaboration between medical professionals, paramedics, and the public, encouraging active participation in recognizing and responding to stroke symptoms. By raising awareness about early detection and timely intervention, Manipal Hospital Sarjapur underscored the life-saving potential of swift action during a stroke. This initiative ultimately aimed to create a healthier, more informed community better equipped to prevent stroke-related fatalities and improve recovery outcomes.