Stroke according to the World Stroke Organization (WSO) is the second leading cause of death and disability, globally. To emphasize the serious nature and high risk attached to stroke, the Neurology Unit of the Department of Medicine, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) observed the 2022 edition of the World Stroke Day, themed “Precious Time: Save Minutes, Save Lives Campaign”. The event took place on Monday, 31st of October, 2022.
During the celebration, members of the Unit paid a courtesy visit on the Chief Medical Director, Prof. Adetokunbo Fabamwo, who said that the Unit is one of the Units that the hospital management is quite proud of. The CMD praised the leadership of the Unit and urged the staff of the Unit to continue the good work they do in caring for their patients.
Prof. Yomi Ogun, a Professor of Internal Medicine and Neurology and Head of Stroke Unit in LASUTH described stroke as a very common disease that if not detected early can be harmful to one’s health and can lead to death or hamper the proper functioning of some other organs in the body. He stated some of the symptoms of stroke to include sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm or leg, dizziness, loss of balance, severe headache among others.
While buttressing his point, Prof. Ogun noted, that stroke has no respect for age nor gender and at present there is an increasing incidence of stroke evenamong the youths. He said the day is an opportunity to raise awareness of the serious nature and increasing incidence of stroke and to enlighten the populace about ways in which there can be a reduction in the burden of stroke and also to access treatment and support for survivors and caregivers.
Dr. Sikirat Ashiru, a Senior Registrar in the Neurology Unit, LASUTH, spoke on the theme for the day. She explained that when stroke occurs, every second is crucial, as the brain tissue and millions of neurons begin to degenerate almost immediately. She said, the #Precioustime campaign aims to raise awareness of stroke signs and the benefits of timely access to emergency medical care.
The sensitization train moved from the hospital premises to the popular Alade Market at Allen Avenue in Ikeja. Some of the activities for the day included, health talk, health screening for blood pressure, random blood sugar and screening for Body Mass Index (BMI).
Members of the Community of the Alade Market appreciated LASUTH for earmarking the market as the host for the sensitization program.
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