EVERY hour 10 South Africans suffer a stroke. While many individuals think a stroke only happens to older people, the truth is it can happen at any age.
Awareness is key to prevention, and Life Healthcare is driving stroke awareness by lighting up its facilities in green during October to support Stroke Awareness Week from 28 October to 3 November, which culminates on World Stroke Day on 29 October.
According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, 80 per cent of heart disease and strokes can be prevented – underscoring the importance of education around strokes. Prof Pamela Naidoo, CEO of the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa, states: “The public needs to be aware that adopting healthy behaviours is key to the prevention of heart disease and strokes. It is important to know your blood pressure measure, eat nutritious food, engage in physical activity, avoid excessive alcohol use and quit tobacco smoking.”
The public needs to be aware of what a stroke is, have knowledge about stroke symptoms and more importantly what to do in case you suspect a stroke.
Throughout the week, Life Healthcare hospitals in partnership with the stroke-awareness Angels Initiative and the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa will be working to drive stroke awareness to empower members of the public to recognise and respond appropriately in a stroke emergency.
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