Younger Indians Are Suffering More Strokes, But Most Reach Hospitals Too Late: Ramkrishna CARE Doctors on World Brain Day

·         Neurological disorders now the leading cause of disability worldwide

·         India reports nearly 1.25 million new stroke cases every year

·         Many patients reach advanced hospitals only after paralysis or severe neurological damage

·         Early recognition and timely treatment can prevent lifelong disability

Neurological disorders have emerged as the leading cause of disability worldwide, with more than 3.4 billion people, over 40% of the global population, living with conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord and nervous system, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). These disorders are also responsible for over 11 million deaths annually, making neurological diseases one of the world's fastest-growing public health challenges.

Stroke remains one of the biggest contributors to this burden. India records an estimated 1.25 million new stroke cases every year, with studies showing a significant rise over the past three decades. Increasing rates of hypertension, diabetes, obesity, tobacco use, stress, poor sleep, unhealthy lifestyles and an ageing population are contributing to the growing burden of neurological disorders across the country. Irregular medication of diabetes hypertension & lack of follow up add insult to injury.

On the occasion of World Brain Day, observed globally with the theme “Brain Health: Access for All,” specialists at RamkrishnaCARE Hospitals called for greater public awareness, saying that while treatment for neurological disorders has advanced significantly, many patients continue to lose valuable treatment time because they fail to recognise the early warning signs or delay reaching hospitals equipped with advanced neurological care.

According to the Neuro specialists, one of the biggest challenges is that patients often seek medical attention only after the condition becomes severe. Many arrive at emergency departments after developing paralysis, loss of consciousness, repeated seizures, severe speech difficulty or sudden vision loss, by which time critical treatment opportunities may already have been missed. In several cases, patients first visit nearby clinics or smaller healthcare facilities or quacks for magical remedies, losing precious time before being referred to comprehensive neuroscience centres capable of providing advanced stroke care thrombosis clot, emergency neurosurgery and specialised neurological treatment. Such delays can significantly increase the risk of permanent disability, prolonged rehabilitation and even death.

Dr.Sanjay Sharma Senior Consultant – Neurology, Ramkrishna CARE Hospitals, said the biggest hurdle in neurological emergencies is delayed recognition of symptoms. “We are increasingly seeing younger patients with stroke and other neurological disorders. Unfortunately, many people ignore sudden weakness, one side of body numbness, slurred speech, facial deviation, dizziness or vision changes, assuming they are caused by stress or fatigue. One of the biggest challenges we face is that patients often reach us late. They lose valuable time moving between multiple healthcare facilities before reaching a comprehensive neuroscience centre. In neurological emergencies, particularly stroke, every minute matters because delays can permanently damage the brain.” So patient has to reach hospital within 4.5 hours of stroke onset & as soon as possible.

Dr. Sharma added that controlling blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy diet, getting adequate sleep, managing stress, avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol remain the most effective ways to reduce the risk of stroke and several neurological disorders.

Emphasising the urgency of stroke treatment, Dr. Arpit Agrawal, Consultant – Neurology, Ramkrishna CARE Hospitals, said, “Nearly 1.9 million brain cells are lost every minute during an untreated stroke. The first 4.5 hours, often called the 'golden window', are critical because timely treatment can prevent permanent disability and save lives. Reaching a comprehensive stroke-ready hospital as early as possible can make the difference between complete recovery and lifelong disability.”

Highlighting advances in treatment, Dr. S N Madhariya, Senior Consultant – Neurosurgery, Ramkrishna CARE Hospitals, said remarkable progress in neuroscience has significantly improved outcomes for patients with complex brain disorders. “Today, advanced MRI imaging, neuronavigation systems, operating microscopes, minimally invasive neurosurgical techniques and specialised neurocritical care have transformed the treatment of brain tumours, traumatic brain injuries, hydrocephalus and several other neurological conditions. Many disorders that were once considered extremely difficult to treat can now be managed with greater precision, safety and improved recovery. However, technology can only save lives when patients reach the right facility without delay.”

Highlighting further importance of this day, Dr.Anindya Roy, Senior Consultant – Neurosurgery, Ramkrishna CARE Hospitals said “On the occasion of World Brain Day, we are reminded that the brain is the control center of every thought, movement, and memory. Many neurological emergencies, especially stroke and head injuries, can be successfully treated if patients reach a hospital without delay. Recognizing warning signs such as sudden weakness, difficulty speaking, severe headache, or loss of consciousness can save lives and prevent permanent disability. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, controlling blood pressure and diabetes, and avoiding tobacco are key to protecting brain health. Early diagnosis, timely intervention, and public awareness remain our strongest tools in reducing the burden of neurological diseases”.

Doctors advised the public to seek immediate medical attention if they experience any of the following warning signs:

·         Sudden weakness or numbness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side

·         Difficulty speaking or understanding speech

·         Sudden loss of vision or double vision

·         A severe, sudden headache unlike previous headaches

·         Loss of balance or difficulty walking

·         Unexplained seizures

·         Persistent headaches lasting several days or weeks, particularly when associated with vomiting or visual disturbances

·         Sudden confusion or unexplained memory changes

Doctors also stressed that brain health begins with everyday choices. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, quality sleep, stress management, periodic health check-ups and effective control of hypertension, diabetes and cholesterol can substantially reduce the risk of many neurological disorders.

On World Brain Day, Ramkrishna CARE Hospitals urged people to give brain health the same priority as heart health. While advances in neurology and neurosurgery have transformed the treatment of neurological diseases, specialists emphasised that the greatest opportunity to reduce disability lies in recognising symptoms early, reaching an advanced neuroscience centre without delay and ensuring timely access to specialised care. They said improving public awareness and access to neurological services remains essential to reducing the growing burden of brain disorders in India.