Brain stroke on the rise among youths: Experts

Today is World Stroke Day. Experts say brain stroke is one of the leading causes of death after heart disease and cancer and alarmingly, youths are increasingly becoming its victims.

Doctors say approximately 4,500 to 5,000 people in India annually suffer from brain stroke and it strikes one person every four seconds globally, of which around 30% die within one to four weeks.

Dr Sudhir Shah, director of the Neurosciences Department of Sterling Hospital, said, "Neurons of the mind stop functioning when they receive less nourishment and oxygen. Thus, the vital organs of the body on the left or the right hand side stop working, and this condition is called brain stroke. More and more youths are getting affected by it due to change in lifestyle. Right now, I am treating a 13-year-old boy suffering from brain stroke." He stressed that timely treatment is very important in such cases.

Dr Rakhil Yadav, consultant, Neurology, Narayana Multispecialty Hospital, Ahmedabad, said, "Stroke in India is increasing at an alarming rate, especially among youths. Main causes include elevated stress levels, poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle. If left untreated, it can cause irrepressible damage to brain cells, impeding motor and speech skills. Thus, the treatment window must be within four and a half hour of the stroke."

He added, "It is also equally important to take the victim to a hospital equipped to perform CT and MRI scans, as stroke requires a prompt multidisciplinary treatment."

Breast cancer awareness event

With an aim to mark the breast cancer awareness month and aid early detection of breast cancer, an event 'Forever Elegant' was organised by HCG Cancer Centre on Saturday. A session on spiritual, physical and mental aspects of tackling cancer and inspirational talk and a skit that touched upon the insensitive attitude of people towards the patient were held. "In Gujarat, 10,000 to 12,000 cases of breast cancer are detected annually. The main reason is lifestyle and obesity," said Dr DG Vijay, senior breast cancer surgeon and director of the Centre.

MIND IT

• Doctors say approximately 4,500 to 5,000 people in India annually suffer from brain stroke. 

 

• It strikes one person every four seconds globally.