Stroke Awareness Programme Held in Vizag

CARE Hospitals, Visakhapatnam, organised a stroke awareness programme at Hotel Grand Bay to educate young people about stroke symptoms, prevention and the importance of timely medical treatment.

Held under the message “Every Minute Counts,” the event brought together more than 250 participants, including medical students, interns, schoolchildren, teachers and healthcare professionals from Andhra Pradesh and Odisha.

The programme was conducted ahead of World Stroke Day, observed on October 29, to highlight the importance of recognising stroke symptoms and responding quickly.

Medical Students Participate in Stroke Quiz

The Inter-College Stroke Quiz Championship 2026 was organised for final-year MBBS students and medical interns from medical colleges across Andhra Pradesh and Odisha.

The competition covered stroke risk factors, early symptoms, diagnosis, emergency management and modern treatment methods. The initiative aimed to strengthen the clinical knowledge of future doctors and encourage them to spread awareness in their communities.

Dr. G. Butchi Raju, former principal and former head of the Department of Neurology at Andhra Medical College, attended the programme as the chief guest.

Schoolchildren Spread Awareness Through Art

In association with GWS Art Academy, CARE Hospitals conducted a painting competition for students from Classes 5 to 10.

Participants used their artwork to communicate messages about stroke warning signs, prevention, healthy lifestyles and the need for immediate medical attention. Organisers said involving children could help carry health awareness messages into families and local communities.

Doctors Emphasise Early Treatment

Doctors at the programme highlighted that stroke symptoms should never be ignored or left to resolve on their own. Warning signs include a drooping face, weakness in an arm and difficulty speaking.

Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek emergency medical care immediately. Timely treatment can improve the chances of recovery, while delays may limit available treatment options.

Doctors also highlighted the importance of managing risk factors such as high blood pressure and diabetes, avoiding smoking and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

The programme concluded with prizes and certificates for the winners of the quiz and painting competitions, reinforcing the importance of spreading stroke awareness beyond hospitals.