Chittagong, Oct 29 (V7N)- Today, marks World Stroke Day. In Chattogram, stroke cases are rising at an alarming rate, exposing the city's healthcare limitations. According to Chattogram Medical College Hospital (CMCH), 6,776 stroke patients were admitted in 2023. This year, as of October, that number has surged to 9,500. Despite this concerning trend, Chattogram still lacks a dedicated stroke hospital, leaving CMCH’s Neurology Department as the only resource for stroke treatment.

Rising Stroke Cases in Chattogram: Causes and Risk Factors

A stroke occurs when the blood flow to the brain is blocked (ischemic stroke) or when there’s bleeding in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). Key risk factors include high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, high cholesterol, obesity, and excessive alcohol consumption. Genetic predisposition also plays a role, adding to the risks of stroke. As these conditions grow more common in urban areas, the prevalence of stroke has also increased in Chattogram, making prevention and effective treatment crucial.

Stroke Treatment at CMCH: Limited Facilities and High Demand

CMCH has been providing thrombolytic therapy, a clot-busting treatment that is effective in the initial stages of an ischemic stroke. While this therapy is helping, only 20 patients have received thrombolysis treatment to date, underscoring the resource limitations. Epilepsy and headache clinics are also operational, and stroke patients receive follow-up care through CMCH’s stroke clinic. However, with just 33 approved beds in the Neurology Department, capacity has been increased to 85 to handle demand, yet the patient count often exceeds 100.

As a result, patients are being treated not only in the ward but also in the corridors. Female doctors face challenges ensuring safe treatment at night, and emergency oxygen supplies are stretched thin. Even routine rounds by doctors are hindered by the number of patients, with some forced to lie on the floor due to overcrowding.

Expert Opinions: Calls for a Dedicated Stroke Facility

Dr. Md. Hasanuzzaman, Head of Neurology at CMCH, states, “Stroke cases are rising, and while we are continually improving our services, the growing patient volume puts immense strain on our limited resources. Establishing a specialized stroke hospital in Chattogram would reduce the burden on CMCH, allowing us to deliver more effective care.”

Stroke Prevention: Key Recommendations

Experts emphasize that adopting a healthy lifestyle is essential for stroke prevention. This includes regular exercise, balanced nutrition, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, and monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. Regular health check-ups and screenings can help identify risk factors early, reducing the likelihood of a stroke.

The Urgent Need for a Dedicated Stroke Hospital

Chattogram's growing stroke numbers highlight the urgent need for a specialized stroke facility. Establishing a dedicated hospital could not only ease the burden on CMCH but also ensure timely and specialized treatment for stroke patients.