By Reu'el McAllister Singh (Communications Intern)
National Stroke Week happens every year from 28 October to 3 November to teach people about preventing strokes. It highlights World Stroke Day on 29 October. This period serves as a vital reminder of the substantial health burden that strokes place on the South African population. Every hour, an average of 10 adults suffer a stroke, heart disease, or stroke-related complications that claims 225 lives every single day. With these rising statistics, the need for awareness and intervention starts with you practicing prevention. The Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa (HSFSA) is highlighting the importance of understanding strokes, not just as a medical event, but as a public health crisis to not be another statistic.
What is a Stroke?
A stroke occurs when blood supply to the brain is interrupted, either due to a blockage (ischemic stroke) or bleeding (hemorrhagic stroke). A transient ischemic attack (TIA), often referred to as a "mini-stroke", is a temporary disruption of blood flow to the brain, causing stroke-like symptoms that typically resolve within minutes to hours. The lack of oxygen during a stroke or TIA causes brain cells to become damaged and die within minutes. Recognising stroke symptoms and seeking immediate medical attention is vital for improving outcomes.
Key Symptoms of Stroke
The symptoms of a stroke can vary depending on the area of the brain affected, but common signs include:
Face Drooping: One side of the face may droop or feel numb.
Arm Weakness: One arm may be weak or unable to be raised.
Speech Difficulties: Speech may be slurred or difficult to understand.
Balance and Co-ordination Issues: Trouble walking or loss of balance.
Sudden Severe Headache: A headache with no known cause can indicate a stroke.
The HSFSA recommends using the FAST acronym to identify stroke symptoms quickly:
Face: Check for drooping.
Arms: See if one arm is weak.
Speech: Listen for slurred speech.
Time: Act quickly—if you observe any signs, call emergency services immediately.
The Burden of Stroke in South Africa
Cardiovascular diseases, including strokes, pose a significant health burden in South Africa, where one in three adults has hypertension, greatly increasing the risk of strokes and heart attacks. A key factor is the high prevalence of obesity, with 60% of women and 31% of men classified as overweight or obese. Around 80% of deaths from these conditions could be prevented with healthier lifestyle choices. The HSFSA highlights the urgent need for better dietary habits, as many South Africans consume excessive sugar, salt, unhealthy fats, and alcohol while lacking sufficient physical activity.
Prevention and Lifestyle Changes
Preventing strokes involves adopting healthier behaviours. Here are key recommendations:
Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on whole foods, reduce sugar and salt intake, and avoid unhealthy fats.
Stay Active: Aim for regular physical activity to help maintain a healthy weight.
Limit Alcohol and Quit Smoking: Reducing these substances can lower stroke risk.
Regular Health Check-Ups: Monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and other health indicator
Resources and Support
South Africans can utilise resources offered by the HSFSA, including mobile clinics that provide information on stroke risk factors and lifestyle changes. In addition, the World Stroke Organization offers free resources, including educational materials and interactive tools to help educate about stroke prevention.
Stroke Awareness Month highlights the importance of recognising stroke symptoms, understanding risk factors, and making informed lifestyle choices. By prioritising prevention and increasing awareness, we can reduce the incidence of strokes in South Africa. If you or someone you care about is at risk, this is your reality check to start making changes to your lifestyle! Adopt healthier habits and share the vital message of stroke awareness with your loved ones.
It's your body, your health, and your life in your own hands and only you can be the difference to yourself.
Contact: heart@heartfoundation.co.za
021 422 1586