29/10/2025
World Stroke Day 2025: Recognizing the Crisis and Acting Fast
World Stroke Day, observed annually on October 29, serves as a critical reminder of India's escalating stroke burden. This year's theme, "Every Minute Counts," emphasizes the urgent need for immediate action, as every minute after a stroke begins results in the death of nearly 20 lakh (2 million) brain cells. The country reported over 1.25 million new stroke cases in 2021, representing a staggering 51% increase from 650,000 cases in 1990. With an average incidence rate of 145 per 100,000 population, three Indians suffer a stroke every minute. Perhaps most alarming is that one in four adults will experience a brain stroke during their lifetime, with 50% of survivors left with permanent disability.
-The BE FAST Protocol: Recognizing Stroke Symptoms
Time is the most critical factor in stroke survival and recovery. The Indian Stroke Association has launched the "Brain Stroke: Time to Act" campaign, urging everyone to remember the BE FAST acronym for recognizing stroke symptoms. B stands for Balance loss, indicating sudden difficulty walking or dizziness. E represents Eye vision loss, including sudden vision problems in one or both eyes. F signifies Face drooping, where one side of the face sags or feels numb. A denotes Arm weakness, when one arm drifts downward upon raising both arms. S indicates Speech difficulty, including slurred speech or trouble speaking. Finally, T means Time to call emergency services immediately, as patients must reach a stroke center within the golden period of four and a half hours. Despite the availability of effective treatments, less than 1% of patients in India receive life-saving IV thrombolysis, primarily due to delayed arrival at stroke centers.
-Managing Critical Risk Factors
Hypertension and diabetes emerge as the foremost risk factors for stroke in India, requiring aggressive control and treatment. Cholesterol management plays an equally vital role, with LDL-C reduction providing significant protection against cardiovascular disease and stroke. These interconnected risk factors demand comprehensive management strategies that address not only symptoms but root causes through lifestyle modifications, proper diet, regular exercise, stress management, and medical interventions.
-Ayurveda and Siddha:
Ancient Systems for Modern Health
Ayurveda offers holistic management of diabetes, hypertension, and cholesterol through powerful herbal remedies including Gudmar, Fenugreek, Neem, and Vijaysar, which regulate blood sugar, improve insulin function, and balance doshas. The system addresses vata-pitta imbalances through grounding, nourishing therapies, and cooling herbs.
Siddha medicine emphasizes cleansing the system through dietary modifications, yoga, daily routines, and rejuvenation therapies called Kayakalpam.
-Stroke Management Through Detoxification and Rehabilitation
Detoxification procedures eliminate accumulated toxins due to immobility and stress, improving blood flow to the brain and reducing inflammation in the nervous system. For stroke survivors, specialized rehabilitation therapies like Abhyanga (Ayurvedic oil massage) and thokkanam improve circulation, relieve muscle stiffness, and enhance flexibility, while Shirodhara calms the nervous system and promotes mental clarity. This comprehensive approach addresses physical, neurological, and emotional recovery, offering holistic post-stroke care that rebuilds strength and restores vitality.
