‘80pc of strokes preventable thru lifestyle changes’
Staff Reporter :
Nearly 80 percent of strokes can be prevented by adopting healthier lifestyles – through controlling high blood pressure, quitting smoking, maintaining a balanced diet, and staying physically active, according to medical experts.
They made the remarks at the International Stroke Conference 2025 held on Sunday at Bangladesh Medical University (BMU), marking a major milestone in advancing national awareness, prevention, and treatment of stroke.
Experts stressed the need for community-based initiatives and urged that stroke education be integrated into schools, workplaces, and even urban development plans.
Speakers said that the conference ushers in a new era for acute stroke care and the development of next-generation neurointervention services, aiming to raise public awareness, improve prevention, and expand access to modern treatment across Bangladesh.
With the theme “Transformation of Acute Stroke Care and Development of Next Generation Neurointervention Services in BMU,” the scientific session showcased innovative strategies in emergency stroke management and cutting-edge neurointervention technologies.
Experts highlighted that stroke remains one of the leading causes of death and disability in Bangladesh – yet most cases are entirely preventable.
Organized by BMU’s Department of Neurology, the event took place at Shaheed Dr. Milon Hall.
BMU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Md. Shahinul Alam attended as the chief guest, while Pro-Vice Chancellor (Administration) Prof. Dr. Md. Abul Kalam Azad presided over the session.
Prof. Dr. Shahinul Alam said the conference marks a new horizon in stroke management in Bangladesh.
“With the support of international experts, BMU is committed to establishing state-of-the-art stroke care facilities in the country. Their participation today reflects a shared dedication to advancing neurological treatment,” he added.
Other speakers underscored the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration, prevention-focused strategies, and the integration of comprehensive stroke management systems.
Despite scientific progress, they warned that public awareness about stroke remains dangerously low. Millions of Bangladeshis still fail to recognize early warning signs, resulting in delayed treatment and preventable fatalities.
They emphasized that recognizing symptoms such as facial drooping, arm weakness, and speech difficulty can save both life and brain.
Speakers also called for aligning Bangladesh’s stroke management protocols with international standards, expanding data-sharing initiatives, and strengthening global training collaborations.
They concluded that sustainable progress in stroke prevention and treatment will only be possible through continuous global cooperation.