Stroke Situation in India: How Do We Walk the Talk?

Abstract

The last 30 years have witnessed a twofold increase in the number of patients who have suffered stroke. We, as a nation in India, have also witnessed a steady increase in stroke cases, with stroke being the fourth leading cause of death and the fifth major cause of disability. Despite all the evidence, the rates for intravascular thrombolysis with tPA remained around 2%- 10% of patients, although around 25% could be eligible for the same globally. The situation of endovascular thrombectomy in acute ischemic stroke patients with large vessel occlusions is further grim & complicated with negligible data visibility at the national level. The roadblocks in our scenario for optimal acute stroke care are multidimensional and multifactorial. A panoramic understanding of the stumbling blocks will pave the way for comprehensive stroke care in our country. Action points are required at all levels to streamline the process. To walk this talk is hopeful and encouraging at the same time a herculean task for us as a nation. Together, we are #Greater than Stroke.