Around 2 million people in Bangladesh are currently affected by stroke, with nearly 500,000 experiencing long-term impacts, according to experts.

In observance of World Stroke Day on Tuesday (October 29), speakers shared these figures during a discussion organised by the Bangladesh Society of Neurosurgeons at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU).

This year’s theme is “Together we are bigger than a stroke.”

Experts highlighted that stroke is the leading cause of disability globally and the second most common cause of death, yet it remains largely preventable.

While stroke is more common among those over 50, it can strike at any age, with the risk doubling every decade after 50. Men are particularly vulnerable.

Despite the high number of patients, Bangladesh has only 212 neurosurgeons, far below the minimum requirement of 1,600.

Contributors to the rise in stroke-related deaths include low awareness, diabetes, high blood pressure, smoking, and unhealthy lifestyles.

Strokes are primarily of two types: ischemic stroke, caused by a sudden reduction or stoppage of blood flow to the brain, and hemorrhagic stroke, where a blood vessel ruptures, causing bleeding. Symptoms of ischemic stroke include paralysis, speech issues, and loss of consciousness, while hemorrhagic stroke symptoms tend to be more severe.

Other vascular diseases can also lead to stroke by causing vessel swelling and rupture.

Experts at the discussion emphasised the importance of recognizing key stroke symptoms, such as sudden weakness in the arms and difficulty speaking, to act quickly.

Special guests at the two-day event included BSMMU Pro-VCs Professor Dr Md Abul Kalam Azad and Professor Dr. Md. Mujibur Rahman Howladar, as well as Bangladesh Society of Neurosurgeons leaders Professor Dr Md Moududul Haque, Dr Md Nuruzzaman Khan, and Dr Md Zahid Raihan.