By Ginika Oguji

The Chief Medical Director (CMD) of Comprehensive Medical Centre (CMC), Awkuzu, Dr Adaobi Odina, has urged members of the public to embrace healthy lifestyles and undergo regular medical check-ups to reduce the risk of stroke.

Odina made the call on October 29 during a chat with health information officers in her office as the world marks World Stroke Day, a day set aside to raise awareness about stroke prevention, early recognition, treatment, and rehabilitation.

“Stroke is a serious medical condition that occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures. It can result in disability or death if prompt medical attention is not provided”, he said.

Odina highlighted the importance of controlling high blood pressure, managing diabetes, maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical exercise, and eating a balanced diet as essential measures for reducing stroke risk.

She also encouraged members of the public to avoid smoking, limit excessive salt intake, and seek medical advice on managing conditions that could increase their vulnerability to stroke.

Odina further emphasised the need for people to recognise the warning signs of stroke, including sudden weakness or numbness of the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body, difficulty speaking, sudden vision problems, loss of balance, and severe headache without an obvious cause.

She advised members of the public to seek emergency medical care immediately if any of these symptoms occur, even if they disappear after a short time, insisting that a second could count in management of stroke

The CMD’s awareness message also underscored the importance of regular blood pressure checks, early diagnosis, and adherence to prescribed treatment, particularly among people living with hypertension and diabetes.

World Stroke Day, observed annually on October 29, provides an opportunity for healthcare professionals and organisations to educate the public on the dangers of stroke and the importance of preventive healthcare. The commemoration serves as a reminder that adopting healthy habits, identifying risk factors early, and seeking prompt medical attention can help save lives and reduce the burden of stroke in the society.

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