World Stroke Day, observed globally on October 29, carries the 2025 theme: "Every Minute Counts." This highlights the vital importance of recognising stroke symptoms early and acting without delay. The FAST message-Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and Time to call for emergency help-remains the simplest way for the public to identify warning signs.
A stroke is a medical emergency caused by an interruption in blood flow to the brain. Brain cells begin dying within minutes, leading to paralysis, speech difficulty, and cognitive impairment. Ischemic strokes result from blocked blood vessels, often due to high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, or smoking. Hemorrhagic strokes occur when a blood vessel bursts, frequently linked to uncontrolled hypertension, aneurysms, or head injury. Some strokes have unknown causes, known as cryptogenic strokes.
Timely medical attention can save lives and prevent long-term disability. Diagnosis involves history-taking, clinical assessment, and imaging like CT or MRI scans. Ischemic strokes may be treated with clot-dissolving drugs or mechanical thrombectomy, while hemorrhagic strokes often require surgery to control bleeding. Rehabilitation-including physiotherapy, speech and occupational therapy, and psychological support-is crucial for restoring independence and quality of life. Neuroplasticity allows brain recovery even years after a stroke.
Prevention is the most effective strategy. Healthy habits such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, routine screening for blood pressure and cholesterol, and avoidance of tobacco and excessive alcohol can significantly reduce risk. Public awareness campaigns and survivor support networks strengthen resilience and improve outcomes.
For Bangladesh, building a stroke-safe future demands collective commitment from citizens, health systems, and policymakers. Every second lost during a stroke is brain function lost forever. Awareness, prevention, and timely intervention are essential. Every minute counts, and every action matters.
Md. Amir Hossain and
Md. Abu Abdullah
Both are retired Additional Secretaries to the Government of Bangladesh
