The deadly trio driving stroke surge in India: Sugar, Salt, and Stress
Dr Samir Parikh
Every year on October 29, the world observes World Stroke Day to raise awareness about stroke prevention, symptoms, and treatment.
On World Stroke Day 2025, the global theme “Every Minute Counts” serves as a crucial reminder that when it comes to stroke, speed saves lives. The campaign focuses on recognising symptoms early, taking immediate action, and ensuring timely, inclusive healthcare for everyone.
Stroke has become a major public health crisis in India, claiming one life approximately every four minutes. Based on the latest reports from the Indian Stroke Association, the country records an estimated over 1.8 million new stroke cases annually. This high incidence rate confirms stroke’s position as one of the top three leading causes of death and disability across the nation.
Stroke is a leading cause of disability and death, but most strokes are treatable if identified and managed quickly.
Every Minute Counts
Every passing minute during a stroke means millions of brain cells lost. That’s why it’s vital for everyone to know the warning signs and respond immediately. Remember the acronym #ActFAST — Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and Time to call emergency services. Acting fast can make all the difference between recovery and permanent damage.
Accessible and equitable healthcare is important. The benefits of advanced stroke treatment should reach all communities. Stroke care should not be a privilege, but a right.
Prevention and awareness are critical components of the fight against stroke. Lifestyle changes, regular check-ups, and control of conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol can dramatically reduce stroke risk. An alarming rise in stroke cases, particularly in India, is closely linked to a combination of three everyday lifestyle factors: excess salt, excess sugar, and never-ending stress. These silent contributors, often overlooked in daily routines, are steadily fueling the nation’s growing burden of stroke and other cardiovascular diseases.
This World Stroke Day, the message is simple but powerful: Know the signs, act fast, and remember — every minute counts.
Dr Samir Parekh, Senior Neurosurgeon
at Apex Group of Hospitals, Mumbai
