Experts stress early detection, swift transportation for effective treatment of stroke

The ISA and NHM launched a training program in Guntur to enhance stroke care and emergency response for medical officers.

The Indian Stroke Association (ISA), in collaboration with National Health Mission (NHM), Government of Andhra Pradesh, launched a training programme for medical officers in Guntur district on Tuesday, to strengthen the stroke care pathway and improve emergency response to brain stroke cases.

On this occasion, ISA president Dr. Vijaya, in a press release on Wednesday, said that stroke remains one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability worldwide. She maintained that the most common form, ischemic stroke, can be treated using clot-busting thrombolytic drugs if administered within a critical window of four-and-a-half hours after the onset of symptoms. The State government provides the thrombolytic drug Tenecteplase (TNK) free of cost at designated health centres to enable timely treatment for patients.

Officials said early identification and rapid transportation of stroke patients to appropriate facilities are crucial for effective treatment within the narrow therapeutic window. The training programme is designed to equip medical officers with the necessary skills to recognise symptoms early and manage acute stroke cases efficiently.

The initiative also focuses on strengthening stroke care through public awareness campaigns, training of community health workers and paramedics, improved infrastructure including CT scan facilities, dedicated stroke beds, and the formation of trained stroke care teams.

Dr. Vijaya explained the recognition and management of acute brain stroke through presentations and case studies. Senior health officials from the State and district health departments attended the programme.