Stroke is the 4th leading cause of death in the country following cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes, with 400 new cases recorded every year. Doctor Hazirah binti Shafri, Medical Officer at the ‘Brunei Neuroscience Stroke and Rehabilitation Centre’, BNSRC, Pantai Jerudong Specialist Centre’, PJSC said that stroke is also among the main cause of disability among the citizens and residents in Brunei Darussalam. In conjunction with World Stroke Day, News at Ten last night brought a special edition on the disease, which requires specific medical attention in addressing it.

Doctor Hazirah urges the public to increase knowledge on signs of stroke and get immediate treatment when experiencing these symptoms. She explained that stroke symptoms identified as the acronym BE FAST, can save lives and reduce the effect of strokes.

A stroke patient, Awang Haji Zainal bin Haji Safar, shared his experience when he was struck by the disease almost two years ago. He always experienced headaches and migraines and episodes of fainting. He explained that the support and encouraging words from his wife, family members and friends acted as additional therapy for him, aside from the hospital treatments.

Practising a healthy lifestyle is important. A healthy and balanced diet as well as carrying out physical activities in the daily routine can reduce the risk of stroke.

Source: Radio Television Brunei