Gleneagles Hospitals launches “Fire in the Brain” campaign for World Stroke Day

In recognition of World Stroke Day on October 29th, Gleneagles Hospitals, Parel, Mumbai, has launched an awareness campaign titled “Fire in the Brain.” This initiative draws a parallel between fire emergencies in the city and stroke emergencies in the brain. The campaign aims to educate the community on the importance of timely response and treatment for both stroke and fire incidents.

Present at the event were Rajendra Ambulgekar, Chief Fire Officer, along with other fire personnel from Mumbai, Dr Bipin Chevale, CEO of Gleneagles Hospital, Dr Shirish Hastak, Director of Neurology and Stroke, and the hospital team. As part of the campaign, riskometers will be distributed to firemen to help assess their stroke risk. The fire chief also recognised five stroke survivors, encouraging others to seek timely treatment and emphasising the importance of attending the right hospital or centre.

Globally, 100 million people live with the consequences of stroke. A stroke is a medical emergency, and prompt action can significantly affect outcomes. “90 per cent of strokes are linked to 10 major modifiable risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, physical inactivity, diet, alcohol consumption, obesity, and stress. Only 18 per cent of low-income countries have access to these acute stroke treatments, compared to 91 per cent in high-income countries. We need to do more to ensure everyone can receive the care they need during a stroke emergency. That’s why it’s so important for people to be aware of the signs of stroke and seek immediate medical attention. The BEFAST (Balance, Eyes, Face Drooping, Arm Weakness, Speech Difficulty, and Time) is the acronym for stroke and these symptoms shouldn’t be ignored,” said Dr Shirish M. Hastak, Regional Director of Neurology, Stroke & Neurocritical Care at Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, Mumbai.

Dr Hastak further stated, “Like a fire, every second counts regarding stroke. Underscoring the parallels between these two time-sensitive emergencies, our campaign features the participation of the local fire department to raise awareness of stroke and fire emergencies. Stroke and fire are both critical situations that require swift action. By partnering with the fire department, we hope to amplify the message that recognising the signs of stroke and seeking immediate medical care can be just as life-saving as calling the fire department for a building fire. Akin to firemen during fire incidents, neurologists are responsible during stroke emergencies. The fire department’s quick response can save a building; the same principle applies to stroke. Getting to the right hospital or stroke centre in time can save brain function and even lives. Distribution of riskometers to firemen will help them assess their stroke risk based on modifiable factors like blood pressure, cholesterol, and lifestyle, and firemen will be encouraged to check their own risk. Don’t forget, ‘Time Is Brain’, stay vigilant when it comes to your health.”

Rajendra Ambulgekar, Chief Fire Officer, commented, “We are honoured to be part of this innovative initiative launched by Gleneagles Hospitals, a leader in the healthcare sector. The overwhelming response to this campaign has brought us great joy, and we look forward to future collaborations with the hospital. Both, the fire and brain need the initiation of emergency services. Everyone calls the fire department when a fire breaks out in the home, building, or vicinity. Call a stroke-ready hospital for immediate intervention for successful patient outcomes, reducing the chances of lifelong disability.”

Dr Bipin Chevale, CEO of Gleneagles Hospitals, concluded, “The World Stroke Day awareness event brought together firefighters, healthcare professionals, and stroke survivors on one platform to educate the public on stroke prevention, recognition, and treatment. Our hospital is committed to providing the highest level of stroke care for our community. We have the specialised expertise and advanced treatments necessary to quickly identify and address strokes, giving patients the best possible chance of a full recovery. Through this collaborative effort, Gleneagles Hospital is committed to empowering the community to act quickly in the face of a stroke emergency, just as they would for a fire.”