India, Oct. 29 -- S troke is emerging as one of the fastest-growing crucial health concerns in India and a growing epidemic with cases on the rise across all age groups. Affecting more than 18 lakh Indians every year, stroke is the second leading cause of death and the third leading cause of disability in the country. Indians tend to suffer strokes at a younger age compared to populations in high-income countries, with many victims in their 40s and 50s. One of the most significant hurdles to reducing stroke-related deaths and disabilities is the lack of awareness about the warning signs. Stroke symptoms often appear suddenly, almost within seconds to minutes, and early intervention can significantly reduce damage to the brain, but many people fail to recognise them. The acronym BE-FAST, which stands for Balance problems, Eye problems (blurring), Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and Time to call emergency services-is used to help people remember the most common symptoms of a stroke. Strokes can be caused by either a blockage in the blood flow to the brain (ischaemic stroke) or bleeding in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). Risk factors for both types include high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, obesity, and high cholesterol. These conditions are becoming more widespread due to sedentary lifestyles, urbanisation, unhealthy diets and lack of exercise. Preventing strokes involves managing these risk factors through regular medical check-ups, maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. While raising awareness about prevention and symptoms is critical, access to treatment is equally important. During an episode of acute stroke, early recognition of symptoms and reaching a stroke-ready hospital with neurological care protocols is essential. We can now offer clot-busting drugs and mechanical thrombectomy (removing clots via angiographic techniques) in ischaemic stroke. If treatment is administered within the first few hours, it can make all the difference between life and death or permanent disability. In conclusion, as stroke cases continue to rise in India, it is essential to promote awareness about the condition and its risk factors. Recognising the warning signs, acting quickly, and making healthier lifestyle choices can save lives and prevent lifelong disability....