Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (ANK)

Mangaluru Oct 28: On account of 'World Stroke Day', KMC Hospital, on Saturday October 28, held an awareness programme on the critical medical emergency situation and timely intervention that could give a new lease of life to people.

The hospital has been successful in managing and retrieving many stroke victims.

Addressing the media, medical superintendent, KMC Hospital, Dr Anand Venugopal said, "A series of programmes were organised from October 25, to create awareness on stroke. We conducted walkathon, collage competition, and quiz competition. On Saturday evening, October 28, we will conduct a street play on 'stroke', at Kadri Park and The Forum Fizza mall.

"We need to help people understand the signs and symptoms of brain attack and take precautionary measures. Emphasis must be laid on recognising the stroke symptoms and approaching an appropriate centre with facilities that accommodate a multi-disciplinary approach towards treating the condition - this is important, as the golden hour is where the patient can get a full functional recovery. Once the patient is brought to the centre and treated by the 'stroke' team, the next crucial part is the post treatment rehabilitation with the expertise of a neuro physiotherapist. In this context it is imperative that the patient is treated in a holistic hospital with a multidisciplinary approach to manage stroke, like at KMC hospital."

Head of department and consultant neurology Dr Z K Misri said, "Stroke, also known as brain attack, is caused by the decreased blood circulation to the brain. It is present in various forms - facial deviation, arm, leg weakness or abnormal speech. In case of any of  those signs a patient must be rushed to a stroke centre immediately."

Consultant neurosurgeon Dr Mayur Kamath, and assistant professor, department of Radiology Dr Keerthi Raj were present among others.