The Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC) joins the global community in observing World Stroke Day 2025, themed “Every Minute Counts”, highlighting the urgent need to recognize stroke symptoms quickly and act immediately. Timely treatment can significantly improve recovery and reduce disability.
Stroke remains one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide, with the global burden increasing each year. Experts emphasize that effective management relies on the four pillars:
𝗦𝘂𝗿𝘃𝗲𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 – monitoring stroke trends and risk factors
𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 – addressing lifestyle and medical risk factors
𝗔𝗰𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲 – rapid and effective treatment during a stroke
𝗥𝗲𝗵𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 – supporting recovery and quality of life
𝗗𝗿. 𝗚𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗻 𝗢𝘀𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗻𝗲, 𝗡𝗲𝘂𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝗶𝘀𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗶𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝘂𝗯𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹𝘁𝘆 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝗦𝗟𝗕𝗠𝗖, underscored the importance of acting fast:
“When a stroke occurs, symptoms appear suddenly. We can treat many patients effectively—but only if they arrive early. Delays can make the stroke worse and may mean missing the critical window for treatment and recovery. That’s why remembering BE FAST—Balance, Eyes, Face, Arms, Speech, Time—is so important. Every minute truly counts.”
SLBMC has been strengthening its acute stroke care capabilities, recently achieving World Stroke Organization (WSO) Certification as an Essential Stroke Centre. This certification reflects the hospital’s commitment to providing rapid, evidence-based stroke care and highlights the enhanced services available to patients.
“World Stroke Day is a reminder that stroke is preventable and treatable,” added Dr. Osborne. “At SLBMC, we are proud to work together—across departments, disciplines, and with the community—to fight stroke through prevention, acute care, and rehabilitation.”
For advice on stroke prevention, recognizing warning signs, and treatment options, please speak with your doctor or healthcare provider.