Nigerians have been urged to maintain healthy and moderate life style in order to reduce the burden of stroke in the society.
Speaking on the commemoration of this year’s world Stroke Day, a medical practitioner, Dr Chimezie Aghadinobi, cautioned that unhealthy diet could increase the chances of having stroke as it could lead to an increase in blood pressure and cholesterol level.
Dr Aghadinobi explained that the best way to prevent stroke is to eat healthy diet, exercise regularly, avoid excessive smoking and drinking of alcohol and other things that could limit oxygen and nutrients to the brain, stressing that stroke could cause permanent damage to the brain or even death.
On his part, a Pharmacist, Sir George Ezenwa who noted that stroke, which is one of the causes of death and disability, could happen to anyone at any age, irrespective of status, explained that though there are therapies to reduce brain injury from acute stroke, prevention remains the most effective strategy to reducing the health consequences and loss often occasioned by stroke, stressing the need for regular medical checks.
He urged youths to avoid the abuse of drug and other intoxicants as well as strive to be actively engaged in productive ventures to avoid risk factors like anger, depression and high blood pressure and as well, increase intake of fruits and vegetables.
Also speaking on the Day, the Founder Centre for Psychic and Healing Administration Awka, Dr Mrs Flora Ilonze, explained that two broad categories of stroke exist namely, stroke that occurs due to blockage of blood flow and one caused by bleeding in the brain.
She enumerated warning signs of stroke to include sudden numbness or weakness of face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body among others and advised people to cut down on salt intake and ensure that they get enough sleep every day.
World Stroke day, observed on October twenty-ninth every year, was initiated by world Stroke Organization in 2006 to underscore the serious nature and high rate of stroke, raise awareness of the prevention and treatment of the condition and ensure better care and support for survivors.
The theme for this year world stroke day is “Support”.

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