Sugar, Salt, and Stress: The Deadly Trio Driving India’s Stroke Surge in India

Mumbai, 29th October, 2025: Every year on October 29, the world observes World Stroke Day to raise awareness about the prevention, symptoms, and timely treatment of stroke. This year’s global theme, “Every Minute Counts,” underscores a life-saving truth in a stroke emergency, speed makes all the difference. The campaign calls for early recognition, quick action, and equitable access to quality stroke care for all.

In India, stroke has emerged as a major public health concern, claiming a life approximately every four minutes. According to the Indian Stroke Association, the country witnesses over 1.8 million new stroke cases annually, placing stroke among the top three causes of death and disability nationwide.

Dr. Samir Parekh, Senior Neurosurgeon at Apex Group of Hospitals, Mumbai, emphasized that while stroke remains a leading cause of disability and mortality, most cases are treatable with prompt diagnosis and management.

“Every passing minute during a stroke means millions of brain cells lost,” said Dr. Parekh. “That’s why it’s vital for everyone to know the warning signs and respond immediately. Remember the acronym #ActFAST Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and Time to call emergency services. Acting fast can make all the difference between recovery and permanent damage.”

Dr. Parekh also highlighted the importance of accessible and equitable healthcare, stressing that the benefits of advanced stroke treatment should reach all sections of society.

“Stroke care should not be a privilege it should be a right,” he stated. “At Apex Group of Hospitals, we are committed to providing 24x7 stroke-ready facilities, rapid response teams, and advanced neuro care for all patients, regardless of their background.”

He further emphasized that prevention and awareness remain key pillars in combating stroke.

“Lifestyle changes, regular health check-ups, and controlling conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol can drastically reduce the risk of stroke,” he noted. “An alarming rise in stroke cases, especially in India, is linked to three everyday lifestyle factors excess salt, excess sugar, and never-ending stress. These silent contributors are steadily fueling the country’s burden of stroke and other cardiovascular diseases.”

This World Stroke Day, the message from Apex Group of Hospitals is clear: Know the signs, act fast, and remember — every minute counts.