Huambo: The Huambo General Hospital registers, on average, more than 20 cases of stroke per week, considered one of the main causes of death at the institution, said neurologist Chama Horacio on Tuesday. Speaking to ANGOP, the specialist expressed concern over these alarming numbers, particularly noting that adolescents are increasingly being affected, with the hospital recording nearly one death per day related to strokes. This situation underscores the inadequacy in controlling risk factors associated with the condition.
According to Angola Press News Agency, neurologist Chama Horacio emphasized that while adolescents and young adults are among those treated, stroke occurrences are notably higher in adults, particularly men, with risks doubling for those aged between 50 and 60. "For example, yesterday we had two cases of stroke hospitalization and both died," he reported, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
Dr. Horacio identified the main risk factors contributing to strokes as uncontrolled high blood pressure, unmanaged diabetes, high cholesterol levels, sedentary lifestyle, poor dietary habits, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, high salt intake, cardiovascular issues, use of strong drugs, and advancing age. He stressed that more than 80 percent of stroke cases could be prevented through effective management of these risk factors, particularly by monitoring blood pressure and diabetes, which are prevalent among patients treated at the hospital.
He further explained the symptoms of a stroke, which include sudden muscle weakness on one side of the body, facial drooping, difficulty speaking, vision problems, dizziness, seizures, and severe headaches. Prompt medical attention is crucial to minimize the damage as delayed treatment can lead to more severe consequences.
The neurologist detailed the two types of strokes: hemorrhagic, which is marked by a ruptured blood vessel in the brain resulting in bleeding and high mortality, and ischemic, which is more common and occurs due to a blockage in a brain blood vessel, obstructing blood flow and oxygen.
