01/11/2025
LASUTH STROKE UNIT CELEBRATES WORLD STROKE DAY 2025
The Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) Stroke Unit joins the global community in commemorating the 2025 World Stroke Day, under the theme "Every Minute Counts."Observed annually on October 29, World Stroke Day aims to elevate awareness regarding stroke prevention, treatment modalities, and support for survivors. This significant global health initiative underscores the profound impact of strokes and emphasizes the urgent need for enhanced public understanding and proactive measures.
The celebration commenced with a courtesy visit to the hospital's management, followed by an enlightening health talk at the Medical Outpatient Department's waiting area, aimed at educating patients about the symptoms of stroke and the critical importance of prompt medical intervention. The event also promoted healthy lifestyle choices to mitigate stroke risk factors, such as hypertension, diabetes, and to***co use, alongside offering complimentary screenings for both patients and staff at the Sustainable Development Goal Multipurpose Building (SDG).
During the visit, Prof. Yomi Ogun, a distinguished professor of Internal Medicine and Neurology, who also heads the Neurology and Stroke Unit, expressed gratitude to the management for their consistent support. He highlighted the importance of stroke awareness revealing that it's the second leading cause of death globally, and a predominant contributor to long-term disability. Prof. Ogun further noted that one in four adults will experience a stroke in their lifetime. He advised vigilance in recognizing stroke signs, emphasizing that time is of the essence for anyone affected by a stroke.
Prof. Ogun elucidated that a stroke transpires when blood flow to a segment of the brain is interrupted or diminished, depriving brain tissue of essential oxygen and nutrients. Within minutes, brain cells begin to perish. He identified two primary types of stroke: Ischemic Stroke, often instigated by a blood clot obstructing a blood vessel in the brain which is the most prevalent, and Hemorrhagic Stroke, which may result from bleeding within or around the brain.
He proceeded to outline five critical stroke recognition signs encapsulated in the acronym 'BE-FAST': Balance loss, Eye vision loss, Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and Time which is imperative to quick call for emergency services. He concluded by advocating for controlled blood pressure and cholesterol levels, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and regular physical activity as effective preventive measures against stroke.
In his address, Professor Adetokunbo O. Fabamwo lauded the Stroke Unit for its firm commitment to delivering high-quality healthcare to patients. He extended a warm welcome to Prof. Ogun and his team, expressing pride in the accomplishments of LASUTH's Stroke Unit, which has been instrumental in championing the cause of stroke awareness. He commended Professor Ogun for his leadership and dedication, acknowledging the lives saved through their efforts. "The stroke unit has salvaged numerous lives and benefited from the expertise of the diverse cadre of professionals working there,"he remarked.
The CMD lamented the alarming rise of stroke incidents in the nation, noting that strokes are becoming increasingly lethal, backed by his own statistics indicating a surge in stroke admissions at LASUTH.
He emphasized that the theme "Every Minute Counts"is intentionally crafted to sensitize both patients and potential victims, as well as healthcare professionals, about the urgency of recognizing stroke symptoms. He urged the team to disseminate this message to grassroots communities, ensuring they comprehend the often subtle manifestations of stroke.
Professor Fabamwo further shared the management's ambitious plans to transform the current unit into a three-story facility. He concluded his remarks by commending the team and wishing them success in their celebrations.
Present at the visit were the Provost of LASUCOM, a Consultant Neurosurgeon, Prof. Olufemi Idowu; Director of Clinical Services and Training, Prof. Adebowale O. Adekoya; Director of Nursing Services, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Adeyemi; Dr. Ikechukwu Aganweze, a Neurologist; and members of the Stroke Unit.
