Sakra World Hospital Bengaluru Launches Dedicated Stroke Clinic With ‘Stride to Save Lives’ Walkathon

Sakra World Hospital in Bengaluru recently hosted the “Stride to Save Lives Walkathon” under the theme “Rise Above Stroke,” drawing attention to stroke prevention during National Stroke Awareness Month. 

The event coincided with the launch of Sakra’s new Stroke Clinic, designed to offer advanced diagnosis and treatment for stroke patients in the region. This initiative was introduced by hospital leaders, including Managing Director  Yuichi Nagano, Deputy Managing Director Naoya Matsumi, and Associate Vice President of Sales and Marketing Gurupradha Poonja PJ.

A team of expert neurologists and neurosurgeons from Sakra, such as Dr. Arjun Srivatsa, Director & HOD - Institute of Neurosciences, and Dr. Amit Kulkarni, Senior Consultant & Lead in Neurology & Stroke, joined the panel to discuss stroke risk factors and the importance of early intervention. They emphasised that nearly all stroke cases are preceded by warning signs that go unnoticed due to limited awareness. Dr. Srivatsa explained, “Most patients experience early symptoms that fade within minutes, leading them to dismiss it. Unfortunately, a lack of awareness results in delayed treatment.”

Dr. Kulkarni outlined the “BE F.A.S.T.” method, a guide to recognising the most common symptoms of stroke, stressing its significance in saving lives:

• Balance loss

• Eye vision changes

• Facial drooping

• Arm weakness

• Speech difficulty

• Time to act immediately.

He highlighted that prompt recognition and action can help prevent permanent damage, as most strokes—87 per cent—are ischemic, caused by a blocked artery, while the rest are hemorrhagic, involving blood vessel rupture.

In addition to raising awareness, the hospital’s new Stroke Clinic will feature advanced technology, including a Transcranial Doppler (TCD) machine, to enhance diagnostics and treatment. The clinic will also deploy a Stroke Awareness Vehicle and host an Awareness Stall, aiming to provide information and aid to stroke survivors and their families.

Managing Director Nagano underscored Sakra’s commitment, stating, “Sakra aims to increase awareness on early stroke detection and prevention.” Matsumi added, “Stroke places a significant burden on both individuals and communities, making education essential.” Highlighting the importance of timely response, Poonja concluded, “In stroke care, every minute counts, and a dedicated stroke unit can be life-saving.”