The Indian Stroke Association (ISA) has launched Mission Brain Attack, an initiative aimed at enhancing the awareness, education, and training of healthcare professionals in stroke prevention, immediate treatment, and rehabilitation. The campaign “Each One Teach One” addresses the alarming rise in stroke cases across India, emphasising the urgent need for specialised training and resources to improve stroke care nationwide.
Strokes are one of the leading causes of death and disability in India, affecting approximately 1.8 million people annually. As the second most common cause of mortality and the third leading cause of disability, strokes have had a significant impact on the country’s healthcare system. Despite this, awareness about stroke symptoms and timely intervention remains low. Mission Brain Attack seeks to close this gap by offering healthcare providers critical training on recognising stroke symptoms early and implementing effective care protocols to improve patient outcomes.
The golden hour for stroke treatment is 4 hours and 30 minutes. Prompt medical treatment within this period can reverse the effects of stroke. The Mission Brain Attack initiative is designed to equip physicians and medical practitioners with critical information and practical training on recognising stroke symptoms early, implementing effective treatment protocols, and delivering comprehensive care for patients experiencing strokes. The program will include workshops, webinars, real-time case studies, and access to online resources. These elements will help ensure that healthcare providers across India are familiar with the latest best practices in stroke management.
“The initiative includes a comprehensive program of workshops, webinars, real-time case studies, and access to online resources. We aim to introduce an affordable catheter for treating brain stroke patients, which will significantly lower the surgical costs associated with brain strokes” said Dr Nirmal Surya, Consulting Neurophysician and President, ISA.
According to Dr Pawan Ojha, a Senior Neurologist, “Stroke cases are increasing, especially in younger populations due to risk factors like hypertension and diabetes. This initiative is a crucial step to better prepare healthcare professionals and educate the public.” The ISA invites healthcare professionals across India to join this life-saving mission, which aims to improve stroke survival rates and recovery outcomes.