Reduce your stroke risk with physical activity

Tuesday 22 October 2024: Bermuda Hospitals Board’s (BHB) Emergency Department sees an average of five people every week who are experiencing a stroke. That’s over 200 people every year.

“Our Primary Stroke Centre provides comprehensive stroke services, but we would like the public to take necessary actions to prevent stroke in the first instance and to seek medical care immediately if affected by stroke,” said Dr Srinath Meadipudi, BHB Primary Stroke Centre director.

“Knowing the risks and taking conscious action to reduce them will help you avoid becoming a stroke victim,” he continued.

October 29^th is World Stroke Day, and in keeping with the international theme to boost physical activity, BHB encourages the public to be as physically active as they can.

Regular physical activity is a preventative measure for stroke. Statistics show that at least 30 minutes of physical activity five times a week reduces stroke risk by 20-25%. Physical activity after a stroke aids in recovery and the quality of life of stroke patients.

“At BHB we are encouraging all our staff to take the stairs where possible, instead of using elevators,” said Dr Meadipudi. “We invite the public to join our take the stairs effort or to create a movement goal that better suits their environment, from 28 October.”

BHB also reminds the public to BE FAST in recognising and responding to stroke symptoms.

B is for Balance – sudden loss of balance, headache or dizziness

E is for Eyes – sudden blurred vision

F is for Face – one side of the face is drooping

A is for Arms – sudden weakness in an arm or leg

S is for Speech – sudden difficulty speaking or making sense

T is for Time – Time to call 911 and get to the Emergency Department as soon as possible

More about the BHB Primary Stroke Centre

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