Press Rel 8/2018

FOR ATTENTION: News Editors
SUBJECT: 2018 World Stroke Day
  22 October 2018


A stroke happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. Without blood, brain cells can be damaged or die, depending on which part of the brain is affected and how quickly the person is treated. The effects of stroke on survivors can be devastating to a person’s body, mobility and speech as well as how they think and feel. 

 

The World Stroke Organization reports that around 80 million people in the world today have experienced a stroke and over 50 million survivors live with some form of permanent disability as a result.

 

The South African Nursing Council will be joining the world in the commemoration of World Stroke Day on 29 October 2018. Ms Sizo Mchunu, Registrar and CEO says: “The SANC, as the governing body of the nursing profession and nursing education, would like to urge the public and nurses alike to make sure that they act fast if they suspect that someone has symptoms of a stroke as the ability to recognize the signs and symptoms of a stroke can mean the difference between life and death. Look out for the following signs and symptoms: droop or uneven smile, arm numbness or weakness, slurred speech, vision troubles, and overall fatigue.” 

 

Six key facts about stroke treatment:

  •  
 Early recognition makes a big difference,
  •  
 Around one in ten more people make an excellent recovery when cared for in a specialized unit, 
  •  
 Clot-busting drugs (TPA or Thromolysis) increase the chance of a good outcome by 30%, 
  •  
 Clot retrieval treatment increases the chance of a good outcome by more than 50%, 
  •  
 Rehabilitation is a critical step in treatment process, and 
  •  
 One in four survivors will have another stroke. 

 

A stroke can happen to anyone, at any time, and at any age. Save a life by knowing what signs and symptoms to look for and act immediately.

ENDS

Issued by:

Mrs. Adri van Eeden
Senior Manager: Marketing and Communications
South African Nursing Council 
E-mail:    avaneeden@sanc.co.za
Website: www.sanc.co.za 
Tel:          012 426-9542

 

Official Spokesperson and person to be quoted:

Ms S Mchunu
Registrar and CEO: SA Nursing Council

 

For more information or to arrange for an interview with the Spokesperson, please contact Mrs. Adri van Eeden on Tel (012) 426-9542 or email: avaneeden@sanc.co.za