By: Rosli Mansor Ahmad Razali
IPOH – Today marks World Stroke Day, a global campaign spearheaded by the World Stroke Organization to underscore the severity and prevalence of stroke, particularly its high rates worldwide.
This initiative seeks to increase awareness around stroke prevention, promote effective treatment options, and advocate for better support systems for survivors and caregivers alike.
In Malaysia, stroke has consistently ranked among the top three causes of death, a statistic partially attributed to the nation’s high incidence of non-communicable diseases and an ageing population.
Traditionally, stroke has been perceived as a debilitating illness with life-altering outcomes. However, recent advancements in medical therapy have made it possible for patients to experience a significant chance of recovery with minimised disabilities, provided they receive prompt treatment at healthcare facilities.
One critical tool in recognizing stroke symptoms early is the “BE FAST” acronym: Balance issues, Eyesight changes, Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and Time to call emergency services at 999. This simple guide has been instrumental in helping the public recognize signs of a stroke quickly and seek medical intervention without delay.
In conjunction with World Stroke Day, the Ipoh Town Hall in Perak was illuminated in blue to enhance stroke awareness within the community. The blue lighting serves as a reminder to support initiatives that empower individuals with knowledge about stroke symptoms and the importance of swift action.
For those interested in learning more about the World Stroke Day campaign and ways to prevent stroke, visit the official website at World Stroke Organization’s website.
Together, we are #GreaterThanStroke.
