A medical expert has urged the public to prioritize regular check-ups during the winter, as conditions like paralysis and stroke (Falij) become more common in colder months, with around 20 percent of those affected by these conditions succumbing to them each year, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and timely healthcare to prevent severe outcomes. Dr. Nazeer Haidri, speaking to a local media channel, shed light on the growing concern of stroke cases in Pakistan, revealing that the stroke rate in the country has now exceeded 40%. 

According to his statements, more than 300,000 people fall victim to a stroke each year, which is a significant health crisis. He highlighted that the cold winter months particularly exacerbate the situation, as people are more likely to experience health complications during this season due to factors like blood pressure fluctuations and lack of physical activity. 

Expert emphasized that strokes, especially those caused by underlying conditions such as hypertension and diabetes, can be prevented with early detection and lifestyle modifications. He urged the public to be more mindful of their health, advising regular medical check-ups to monitor risk factors like high blood pressure, cholesterol levels and blood sugar. 

He also stressed the importance of a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption to reduce the risk of stroke. The doctor further pointed out that stroke has become one of the leading causes of death and disability in Pakistan, with many victims unable to recover fully, leading to long-term physical and emotional suffering for both patients and their families. 

He further called for greater awareness campaigns and public education on stroke prevention, urging both individuals and healthcare providers to take proactive steps in managing risk factors, particularly during the winter months when the likelihood of a stroke is at its peak. Responding to a query, expert explained that a lack of proper hydration and insufficient physical exercise are significant factors contributing to the rise in stroke cases. 

He pointed out that these habits, when combined, lead to long-term damage to brain function, adding, emphasized that individuals over the age of 25 are at an increased risk, with one out of every four people in this age group facing the potential threat of stroke each year due to these lifestyle factors.  He stressed the importance of staying hydrated and maintaining an active lifestyle as essential steps in reducing the risk of stroke and other related health complications.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)