The Brunei Neuroscience Stroke and Rehabilitation Centre (BNSRC) will enhance stroke care in the country at the international level. The centre will also collaborate with stakeholders in raising awareness and stroke prevention, treatment, and providing institutional and personal support.
Dr Lee Chooi Lynn from the BNSRC of the Pantai Jerudong Specialist Centre (PJSC), as chairman of World Stroke Day 2023 organising committee, said this at OneCity Shopping Centre yesterday.
Minister of Home Affairs Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ahmaddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman officiated the event.
Dr Lee said that stroke is the fourth leading cause of death in Brunei Darussalam.
“A stroke occurs when brain cells die or are injured due to a disruption in the blood supply to the brain, caused by a blocked blood vessel or blood clot, or a ruptured blood vessel that leads to bleeding,” she said.
“Stroke may result in long-lasting brain damage, long-term disability, or even death.”
She added, “World Stroke Day aims to encourage the public in adopting healthy lifestyle to prevent strokes. Some 90 per cent of strokes can be prevented by managing modifiable risk factors, including high blood pressure, high body mass index, diabetes, high cholesterol and kidney problems, which contributed to as much as 71 per cent of the stroke burden.
“Some 47 per cent of the stroke burden may also be caused by behavioural factors such as smoking, consuming an unhealthy diet and lack of physical activity.”
The event aimed at spreading awareness on stroke prevention through the promotion of a healthier lifestyle, increased knowledge on the signs and symptoms of a stroke and the importance of prompt medical care.
The event engaged the public and introduced services provided by PJSC related to stroke through informative booths.
Attendees also participated in games and quizzes which reinforced messages about stroke prevention, with a lucky draw for those who completed the games and challenges.
World Stroke Day observed annually on October 29, serves as a platform to promote action on stroke-related issues worldwide. – Rokiah Mahmud
