World Stroke Day: Prevention and Early Recognition

World Stroke Day, observed every year on October 29th, is a significant moment aimed at raising awareness about this serious health problem. The initiative, which originated in 2006, is supported by the World Stroke Organization, an organization that has set itself the goal of informing the international community about the risk factors associated with stroke and ways to prevent it. Information provided by the "Reference" department of BTA (Bulgarian Telegraph Agency) highlights the importance of this campaign, which is gaining increasing popularity.

According to data from the World Stroke Organization, one in four people over the age of 25 is at risk of stroke. This underscores the scale of the problem and its importance for public health. Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and permanent disability, but it is important to note that it can be prevented.

The focus of World Stroke Day in 2025 is on the life-saving role of recognizing the early signs of stroke. The theme chosen for the upcoming commemoration is categorical: "Every minute counts".

On the occasion of this day, the Association for Stroke and Aphasia (ASA) organizes the campaign #OneSentenceLife. This initiative aims to remind society of the crucial role of early recognition of the signs of stroke and timely reaction, which can save lives and prevent severe disability.

The main message of the campaign sounds like a clear call to action: "If someone next to you suddenly can't speak, can't smile symmetrically, or can't raise an arm – this is a stroke – call 112 immediately." The organizers add: "Recognize and act in time – one sentence can change everything."

In September, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of ASA, Eng. Dorina Dobreva, shared with BTA the alarming statistics that about 50,000 people suffer strokes each year, of whom five thousand lose their lives. Eng. Dobreva also emphasized that the lower age limit of those affected by stroke continues to fall. Therefore, it is necessary for people to be informed about ways to prevent this socially significant disease, as well as about the correct methods of rehabilitation, in case they encounter it.