June marks a significant milestone in Canada's public health efforts: the 20th anniversary of the Canadian Stroke Best Practice Recommendations. This annual observance, known as National Stroke Awareness Month, aims to educate the public about stroke prevention, early recognition, and timely treatment. With stroke remaining a leading cause of death and long-term disability, awareness and education can save lives. This year's focus on stroke prevention and awareness is particularly timely, given the recent advancements in stroke treatment and the increasing number of stroke survivors in Canada.
A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, either by a blockage (ischemic stroke) or a burst blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). Without oxygen-rich blood, brain cells begin to die within minutes. Time is of the essence, as quick action can significantly reduce the severity of damage and improve recovery chances. Recognizing the symptoms of stroke is crucial, and health professionals emphasize the importance of using the F.A.S.T. acronym:
- Face drooping: One side of the face may droop or feel numb.
- Arm weakness: One arm may feel weak or drift downward when raised.
- Speech difficulty: Speech may be slurred or hard to understand.
- Time to call emergency services: Immediate medical attention is essential.
If any of these symptoms appear, even if they seem mild or go away, calling emergency services right away can save a life. Treatments such as clot-busting medications are most effective when administered within a narrow window of time.
A major turning point in stroke treatment occurred in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The clot-busting intravenous drug (alteplase) was provisionally approved as treatment for ischemic stroke by Health Canada in 1999 and fully approved in 2005. This development, along with the Canadian Stroke Strategy, brought together stakeholders and partners to work toward a common vision of optimal access to integrated, high-quality, and efficient services in stroke prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and community participation.
The Canadian Stroke Best Practices program provides up-to-date, evidence-based clinical practice guidelines across the continuum of care. It covers public awareness, emergency diagnosis and treatment, rehabilitation, recovery, and prevention of subsequent strokes. The program has been instrumental in improving stroke care, reducing deaths and disabilities, and promoting recovery and community participation for stroke survivors.
One of the critical supports for rural Manitobans through the integrated stroke system of care has been the development of the Telestroke program. This program connects patients with stroke who live in rural areas with local physicians and stroke specialists virtually, helping to prevent delays in stroke treatment and preserve the time available for recovery.
Knowing that a stroke can happen at any age is crucial to taking one's health seriously. A significant portion of stroke risk can be managed through lifestyle changes. Up to 80% of stroke risk factors can be prevented through healthy behaviors, such as quitting smoking, reducing physical inactivity, and adopting a healthier diet. Understanding one's risk factors is essential, and the Heart & Stroke Foundation has developed a new risk screening tool to help individuals assess their stroke risk.
The statistics on stroke in Canada are alarming. Stroke is on the rise due to an aging population and an increasing number of younger people having strokes, but more people are surviving. Almost one million people in Canada are now living with stroke, and more than 108,000 strokes happen annually, which equates to one stroke every five minutes. As many as 8 in 10 cases of premature stroke or heart disease can be prevented through healthy lifestyle behaviors. Nine in 10 people in Canada have at least one risk factor for stroke or heart disease.
The economic impact of stroke is also significant. Stroke costs the Canadian economy more than $3.6 billion per year in direct costs, making it one of the 10 most expensive causes of acute care hospitalization in Canada, with an annual cost of $146 million. Stroke is a leading cause of adult disability in Canada, and the Heart & Stroke Foundation has invested $1.73 billion in world-class research to promote health, prevent disease, save lives, and enhance recovery.
In conclusion, National Stroke Awareness Month is a crucial time to educate the public about stroke prevention and early recognition. With advancements in stroke treatment and a growing number of stroke survivors, it is essential to continue raising awareness and promoting healthy lifestyle changes to reduce stroke risk. By taking proactive steps to manage our health and knowing the signs of stroke, we can work towards a future where stroke is less prevalent and more people can lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
