Hypertension; cholesterol; inactive or sedentary lifestyle; obesity; and tobacco are among the main causes of stroke that still require attention in the country. Stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is affected, either because blood vessel is blocked, or when the blood vessel ruptured, and this can damage the brain cells. In conjunction with the World Stroke Day that is celebrated every 29th of October, tonight's bulletin will highlight stroke risk factors and recovery.
The Ministry of Health's survey found that 1 out of 3 adults in the country are experiencing hypertension, and nearly half of the figure have high cholesterol. Meanwhile, 1 out of 4 people in the country are sedentary, nearly two-third are overweight, and nearly one-fifth of the people are smoking. According to Doctor Abang Muhammad Fahmy bin Abang Hepnie, Medical Rehabilitation Consultant at the Brunei Neuroscience Stroke and Rehabilitation Centre, Pantai Jerudong Specialis Centre, PJSC, factors that contribute to stroke are categorised into two types, namely modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. He explained that 90 per cent of the factor are avoidable.
Doctor Abang Muhammad Fahmy also advised the public to take care of their diet, always be active, and take all medications provided according to the schedule if any to reduce the risk of stroke. According to the World Stroke Organization, stroke is no longer a disease that affects senior citizens, as 63 per cent of stroke patients are aged 70 and below. Controlling modifiable risks will assist an individual from the risk of having a stroke.
Source: Radio Television Brunei