World Stroke Day to be marked with education day
A health clinic is hosting an educational event to mark World Stroke Day with the aim of raising awareness.
The Evolution Healing Centre in Paget is hosting the drop-in event at the Queen Elizabeth Park from the Queen Street entrance in Hamilton.
While World Stroke Day is officially observed on October 29, the event will be held two days earlier from 3pm to 5pm.
The World Stroke Association's focus this year is that we can be #GreaterThanStroke together.
Kim Watkins, senior physiotherapist for Evolution, said: “As a community, we must raise awareness to support and fund rehabilitation in Bermuda.
“We invite you to visit us to learn the signs of stroke, celebrate your milestones share your stories and connect with one another. We look forward to meeting you.”
Dr Watkins and Sandro Fubler, another senior physiotherapist at Evolution, among others, will be on hand to answer any questions.
A survey completed by Evolution in Bermuda found that 79 per cent of participants felt they had unmet rehabilitation needs. The final results of the survey will be published on World Stroke Day.
Dr Watkins added: “Your rehabilitation may involve seeing a physiotherapist, occupational therapist, speech and language therapist, clinical psychologist, dietitian and medical support.
“It may also be helpful to receive information regarding medication management, lifestyle changes or longer-term prevention strategies.
“We must continue to push to make changes and improve rehabilitation services related to the needs of the community and stroke survivors.
“In the coming years, global rehabilitation needs are expected to rise and many international healthcare agendas are pushing for affordable healthcare coverage, which includes prevention and rehabilitation.
“Bermuda has the opportunity to be a country of excellence and provide world-class rehabilitation with the right systems, structures and funding.”
"Think BE FAST" as a reminder to spot the signs of a stroke, including Balance, Eyes, Face, Arms, Speech and Time. Spot the signs and know how to react to help your family and friends. If you notice any of these signs, call 911 immediately.
These signs are BE FAST: Balance – is the person dizzy or unbalanced? Eyes – is there sudden blurred vision? Face – is the face drooping? Arms – is there any arm weakness? Speech – are there any speech difficulties or slurring? Time – it is time to call 911.
Strokes are caused by either a blood clot — ischemic attack — or a bleed – haemorrhage.
It is a life-threatening event that can cause severe damage to the brain and can result in a life-changing journey for the patient as well as the family members and supporters.
Strokes are the second leading cause of death globally and the leading cause of disability.
In Bermuda, there are an estimated 250 to 300 stroke incidents per year, approximately five per week. Additionally, seven people a week experience a transient ischemic attack.
Although a TIA usually lasts only a few minutes and often does not cause permanent damage, these ‘ministrokes' may be a warning sign.
Dr Watkins added: “The alarming fact is that 90 per cent of strokes could be preventable by managing controllable risk factors such as high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation, smoking, diet and exercise.
“Therefore, taking the necessary steps to reduce the risk of a stroke is important. It is essential to be checked by your doctor regularly and follow up with any recommendations made.”
• For more information, contact the Evolution Healing Centre on 734-2772 or via e-mail at admin@bpralliance.com
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