The Indian Stroke Association (ISA) has launched ‘MISSION BRAIN ATTACK’, in Varanasi on May 24. It is an initiative designed to enhance stroke awareness in India. The campaign, titled ‘Each One Teach One’, addresses the concerning increase in stroke incidents throughout India and highlights the critical need for specialized training and resources to enhance stroke care across the country. “Mission Brain Attack”  addresses to create awareness on end to end care of stroke and addresses primary prevention, acute management including Thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy and those who are left with disability to provide rehabilitation.

To further its mission of providing superior stroke care for improved patient outcomes, ISA has established its Faridabad Chapter to raise awareness about strokes among both the masses and the physicians while concentrating on acute care, chronic management, and rehabilitation support to better patient results. During the launch of the Faridabad chapter, the media was addressed by Dr. Nirmal Surya, President of the Indian Stroke Association (ISA); Dr. Arvind Sharma, Secretary of ISA; Dr. Kunal Bahrani, Organizing Secretary of the Stroke Academy Faridabad; and Dr. Salil Uppal, Treasurer of ISA.

The burden of stroke is increasing in India at an alarming rate causing disability, morbidity, and mortality in patients. The staggering increase in the number of stroke cases demands timely intervention to save lives. BEFAST (Balance, Eyes, Face Drooping, Arm Weakness, Speech Difficulty, and Time) is the acronym for a stroke and these warnings indicate timely management. However, there is a lack of awareness regarding symptoms and prompt intervention in the country as many suffer in silence and lose their lives without proper medical attention.  ISA’s ‘MISSION BRAIN ATTACK’ has been launched to equip healthcare professionals with essential training to identify stroke symptoms promptly and harness effective care strategies, ultimately saving the lives of patients.

A stroke is a medical emergency and the golden hour for stroke treatment is 4 hours and 30 minutes to save life by using IV Thrombolysis to dissolve the clot. A majority of patients and their family members are unaware that timely intervention within the golden hour can minimize the chances of complications such as life-long disability due to paralysis, blood clots or deep vein thrombosis (DVT), trouble swallowing (dysphagia), brain swelling (cerebral edema), aphasia or other speech disorders associated with stroke. The ‘MISSION BRAIN ATTACK’ initiative helps physicians and medical practitioners with hands-on training by conducting workshops, webinars using, real-time case studies, and giving access to cutting-edge online resources when it comes to recognizing stroke symptoms, employing effective treatment protocols, and delivering top-notch care for patients.

“A stroke can have a devastating impact on one’s life, if not managed on time. This initiative includes a series of hands-on workshops where healthcare professionals can practice and refine their skills in stroke management.  Efforts are being taken to create a network of highly skilled healthcare professionals across India who will respond swiftly and effectively when a brain attack (stroke)  occurs. Regular webinars featuring leading experts in the field, allowing for widespread dissemination of the latest knowledge and techniques will be conducted under this initiative. One of the most valuable aspects of this program is the inclusion of real-time case studies that provide an opportunity to observe and learn from actual stroke cases, offering invaluable practical experience. The initiative will also give healthcare providers 24/7 access to up-to-date information, guidelines, and best practices in stroke care,”  underscored Dr. Nirmal Surya, Consulting Neurophysician and President of the ISA.

Dr. Nirmal Surya added, “A  stroke occurs when blood flow to an area in the brain is cut off and causes brain damage. The factors raising the risk of a stroke are hypertension, high blood sugar, obesity, smoking, family history, alcohol, sedentary lifestyle, age, and high cholesterol. This initiative is dedicated to spreading awareness among both healthcare professionals and the general public by catching more strokes in their early stages when intervention can be most effective.”

Dr. Arvind Sharma, Secretary of the Indian Stroke Association (ISA), stated, “In India, every minute, three people experience a brain stroke. However, there are only about 4,000 to 5,000 neurologists available nationwide to treat these patients within the critical ‘golden window.’ To address this, ISA has launched initiatives to educate both doctors and the general public on preventive measures and appropriate actions during this crucial time.

Lifestyle changes, inadequate sleep, and neglecting regular health check-ups are major contributors to the rising incidence of strokes. While strokes were traditionally more common in individuals in their 50s, we are now witnessing an alarming increase in cases among people aged 30 to 40. Previously, only 5% of strokes occurred in this age group, but this has surged to 10-15%. Disturbingly, even younger individuals aged 20 to 30 are now experiencing strokes.”