Neurologists in Kolkata have revealed that the city has a higher mortality rate among stroke patients compared to other parts of the country. This alarming fact, highlighted on the occasion of World Stroke Day, 2023, underscores the need for increased awareness to correctly identify the signs and symptoms of stroke.

AMRI Hospitals, recognizing the gap between awareness and stroke incidences, celebrated World Stroke Day with a series of events across its three units in Kolkata. In an innovative approach, the hospital chain introduced a QR code campaign to raise awareness. By scanning the QR code, individuals can access a two-minute assessment test to gauge their risk of stroke. Kiosks with the QR code have been set up at all AMRI Hospitals units, as well as on the hospital’s social media channels. Additionally, visitors to the Dhakuria and Mukundapur units have the opportunity to experience 3D videos using Virtual Reality goggles, offering an immersive educational experience.

During the observance of World Stroke Day, doctors and staff at AMRI Hospitals enacted a skit to demonstrate how to respond when a stroke occurs within the family. Neurologists also shared their knowledge with OPD patients on how to recognize a stroke and take prompt action for better clinical outcomes.

To kickstart the weeklong observance, the Stroke Team at the Mukundapur unit honored stroke survivors who experienced the devastating impact of strokes firsthand. One survivor, Rajnish Singh, narrated his harrowing experience, emphasizing the importance of timely intervention. The swift recognition of stroke symptoms by Singh’s wife, coupled with the timely response from the hospital’s Stroke Team, saved his life.

Rupak Barua, Group CEO of AMRI Hospitals, stressed the significance of early detection and urged stroke survivors to become advocates for stroke awareness. He emphasized the effectiveness of the BE FAST approach, which stands for Balance, Eyes, Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, and Time to call emergency services, as a simple yet effective guideline for identifying stroke symptoms.

Through their efforts, AMRI Hospitals hopes to bridge the gap between stroke awareness and mortality rates in Kolkata, ensuring that timely medical care reaches those in need.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the mortality rate among stroke patients in Kolkata?

Kolkata has a higher mortality rate among stroke patients compared to other parts of the country, according to neurologists.

2. Why is the mortality rate higher in Kolkata?

The high mortality rate in Kolkata is primarily due to a lack of awareness among the general population to accurately identify the signs and symptoms of stroke.

3. How did AMRI Hospitals observe World Stroke Day?

AMRI Hospitals marked World Stroke Day with a series of events across its three units in Kolkata. They introduced a QR code campaign for stroke awareness, set up kiosks with the QR code, and showcased 3D videos using Virtual Reality goggles.

4. What is the BE FAST approach?

The BE FAST approach is a simple yet effective guideline for identifying stroke symptoms. It stands for Balance, Eyes, Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, and Time to call emergency services.

5. How can stroke survivors contribute to stroke awareness?

Stroke survivors can become advocates for stroke awareness by spreading the message of early detection and timely medical care.