Lucknow: With stroke being the second leading cause of death worldwide and claiming a life every 6 seconds, early recognition and immediate treatment are vital. On World Brain Day, Apollomedics Super Speciality Hospitals, Lucknow, launched PRAYAAS – Ek Koshish Behtar Zindagi Ki, a special initiative focused on educating the community about brain stroke, its early warning signs, emergency response, and the advanced treatment options now available.
The event featured expert talks, demonstrations, survivor stories, and the launch of critical stroke response systems.
Dr. Pradeep Kumar, Associate Director – Neurology, spoke about the urgent need for stroke awareness, explaining how lack of public knowledge often delays identification and treatment.
“Most stroke patients lose valuable time because they or their families fail to recognize the symptoms. If a patient reaches the hospital within 4 hours of stroke onset, we can often reverse the damage completely with timely intervention. Time saved truly is brain saved.”
Dr. Dewansh Mishra, Consultant – Neuro Interventional Radiology, emphasized the role of advanced stroke care and timely access, “People often ignore the early signs of stroke—slurred speech, weakness on one side, facial drooping—thinking it will pass. But delay can lead to permanent disability or death. If the patient reaches a stroke-ready hospital within the critical window of 4 to 4.5 hours, we can use thrombolysis or perform Mechanical Thrombectomy to restore blood flow and prevent long-term damage.”
A major highlight of the program was the flag-off of Apollo Stroke Ready Ambulances, specialized mobile units equipped for stroke emergencies. Alongside this, the hospital launched a dedicated Stroke Helpline – 1066, ensuring 24×7 assistance and rapid ambulance dispatch for stroke patients.
The ceremonial launch was conducted by Dr. Pradeep Kumar, Dr. Dewansh Mishra, Dr. Arpit Taunk, Mr. Atul Dubey from the 2nd Innings Senior Citizens Club, and several prominent community leaders.
Dr. Mayank Somani, MD & CEO, Apollomedics Hospitals,“At Apollomedics Hospitals Lucknow, we are fully equipped to manage stroke cases round-the-clock. From stroke-ready ambulances and advanced cath labs to internationally aligned protocols and highly trained specialists, we are committed to delivering world-class stroke care. Timely treatment can give stroke patients a new lease of life, and that is our constant mission.”
The event concluded with a live demonstration of stroke response protocols, real-life experience sharing by stroke survivors, and a high-tea session that encouraged open conversations about prevention, preparedness, and timely care.
