Mumbai: In recognition of World Stroke Day on October 29th, Gleneagles Hospitals, Parel, Mumbai has launched a unique awareness campaign that draws a powerful parallel between fire emergencies in the city and stroke emergencies in the brain. The campaign, titled “Fire in the Brain” (“Fire in the City -call fireman, Fire in the Brain-call proper Doctor) aims to educate the community on the critical importance of timely response and treatment for both stroke and fire incidents. Present on the occasion was Mr. Rajendra Ambulgekar chief fire officer and other fire personnel from Mumbai, Dr. Bipin Chevale CEO of Gleneagles Hospital, Dr Shirish Hastak Director of neurology and stroke, and the hospital team. Distribution of riskometers to firemen to help them assess their stroke risk will be done on this occasion. The fire chief felicitated Five stroke survivors, encouraging others to seek timely treatment and emphasizing the importance of going to the right hospital or center.
100 million people in the world live with the consequences of stroke. A Stroke is a medical emergency, and quick action can mean the difference between life and death, or between full recovery and lifelong disability. “90% of strokes are linked to 10 major modifiable risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, physical inactivity, diet, alcohol consumption, obesity, and stress. Only 18% of low-income countries have access to these acute stroke treatments, compared to 91% in high-income countries. We need to do more to ensure everyone can receive the care they need during a stroke emergency. That’s why it’s so important for people to be aware of the signs of stroke and seek immediate medical attention. “The BEFAST (Balance, Eyes, Face Drooping, Arm Weakness, Speech Difficulty, and Time) is the acronym for stroke and these symptoms shouldn’t be ignored,” said Dr Shirish M Hastak, Regional Director, of Neurology, Stroke & Neurocritical Care, Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, Mumbai.
Dr Hastak added, “Like a fire, every second counts regarding stroke. Underscoring the parallels between these two time-sensitive emergencies, our campaign features the participation of the local fire department to raise awareness of stroke and fire emergencies. Stroke and fire are both critical situations that require swift action. By partnering with the fire department, we hope to amplify the message that recognizing the signs of stroke and seeking immediate medical care can be just as life-saving as calling the fire department for a building fire. Akin to firemen during fire incidents, neurologists are responsible during stroke emergencies. The fire department’s quick response can save a building; the same principle applies to stroke. Getting to the right hospital or stroke center in time can save brain function and even lives. Distribution of riskometers to firemen will help them assess their stroke risk based on modifiable factors like blood pressure, cholesterol, and lifestyle and firemen will be encouraged to check their own risk. Don’t forget, “Time Is Brain”, stay vigilant when it comes to your health.”
We are honored to be part of this innovative initiative launched by Gleneagles Hospitals, a leader in the healthcare sector. The overwhelming response to this campaign has brought us great joy, and we look forward to future collaborations with the Hospital. Both, the fire and brain need the initiation of emergency services. Everyone calls the fire department when a fire breaks out in the home, building, or vicinity. Call a stroke-ready Hospital for immediate intervention for successful patient outcomes reducing the chances of life-long disability,” said Chief Fire Officer –Mumbai Fire Brigade Mr Rajendra Ambulgekar.
“The World Stroke Day awareness event brought together firefighters, healthcare professionals, and stroke survivors on one platform to educate the public on stroke prevention, recognition, and treatment. Our hospital is committed to providingg the highest level of stroke care for our community. We have the specialized expertise and advanced treatments necessary to quickly identify and address strokes, giving patients the best possible chance of a full recovery. Through this collaborative effort, Gleneagles Hospital is committed to empowering the community to act quickly in the face of a stroke emergency, just as they would for a fire,” concluded Dr Bipin Chevale, Chief Executive Officer, Gleneagles Hospitals, Parel, Mumbai.
