‘Golden hour’ in stroke case matters: Experts

Fortis Hospital’s Neuro Intervention Stroke Ready Centre organised an awareness session on World Stroke Day on Tuesday to highlight the importance of recognising early signs of a stroke and seek immediate medical attention. The session focussed on educating participants about the “golden hour” in stroke treatment, when timely intervention could significantly reduce disability and improve recovery chances.

Brain stroke affects approximately 105 to 152 individuals per one lakh people in India, according to an estimate. According to the WHO (2023) and the World Stroke Organisation, stroke remains the world’s second leading cause of death after Ischemic heart disease.

Stressing on the critical importance of timely intervention in stroke care, Dr Trimaan Singh, interventional neurologist, Department of Neurosciences, Fortis Hospital, Jalandhar, said, “Every minute matters. Medical treatment within 4.5 hours post stroke is essential to prevent permanent damage and enhance recovery. The patients need rapid, coordinated care encompassing emergency response, advanced neuro-imaging, thrombolysis, clot retrieval and personalised rehabilitation.

During the session, Dr Anmol Singh Rai, consultant neurologist, stressed upon the alarming rise in strokes among young adults aged 18 to 45, a group traditionally considered low risk. Known as ‘young onset stroke,’ this trend now accounts for two to three out of every 10 stroke cases seen in outpatient departments, he said.

“Across India, there is a concerning rise in stroke cases among young adults, driven by unhealthy habits, sedentary lifestyles and inadequate preventive care. This is not just a health concern but an emerging national crisis as strokes in younger individuals often lead to long-term disabilities that impact families and communities. Key risk factors include physical inactivity, hypertension, diabetes, excessive smoking and substance or alcohol abuse,” he added.

A stroke occurs when the brain’s blood supply is disrupted, most commonly due to a blockage in the arteries, depriving the brain of essential oxygen and nutrients. During the session, Dr Rai also emphasised on the importance of BEFAST, an acronym used to detect signs and symptoms in a person having a stroke.

The doctors concluded the session by reinforcing the importance of proactive prevention. Lifestyle modifications such as medication adherence, regular health checkups, physical activity and a heart-healthy diet can significantly lower the risk of stroke. Greater awareness, vigilance towards symptoms and timely response remain key to reducing the overall stroke burden.