The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness issued a statement recently highlighting the importance of detecting the early signs of a stroke, and ways in which people can prevent it from occurring. World Stroke Awareness Day was celebrated on Wednesday 29 October.
As part of the awareness the Karl Bremer Hospital, in the statement, highlighted the importance of preventing strokes through knowledge as well as the vital role played by a multidisciplinary team in supporting stroke survivors and their families.
A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is reduced or blocked, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. Within minutes brain cells begin to die, making every moment critical.
While anyone can experience a stroke risks increase with age and family history. Yet many factors remain within our control. Regular physical activity supports healthy blood pressure and circulation, while avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol further protects the cardiovascular system, the department cautioned.
Routine health screenings are essential for early detection.
“A stroke changes a person’s life overnight and our goal is to make sure every patient receives the support they need to regain dignity and quality of life.
“Recovery is not only physical, but also emotional and deeply personal,” said Dr De Vries Basson, head of internal medicine at Karl Bremer Hospital.
Since January 2025 the hospital has managed 288 stroke-related patients, the youngest 13 years old.
Strokes have traditionally been associated with older patients with multiple comorbidities. But Karl Bremer Hospital has noted a shift in recent years. In 2022, the average age of stroke patients at the hospital was 60 years of age. By 2025 that figure had decreased to age 57, indicating a concerning trend of strokes occurring at younger ages. It is an important reminder of the need for early recognition of stroke symptoms and immediate medical attention.
Remember the abbreviation F.A.S.T:
F – Face drooping: Does one side of the face droop or feel numb? Ask the person to smile. Is their smile uneven?
A – Arm weakness: Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
S – Speech difficulty: Is speech slurred or strange? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence.
T – Time to call emergency. Stroke is a medical emergency and every minute counts. Call emergency services immediately and note the time when symptoms first appear.
The hospital’s stroke-care team includes physiotherapists, occupational therapists, social workers, radiologists and speech therapists, working together to provide comprehensive care from diagnosis to rehabilitation. The hospital’s collaboration with community-based services health-care workers ensures every stroke patient who returns home has a definite exit plan, meaning they will receive ongoing monitoring and support within their community. This follow-up care plays an essential role in preventing complications and promoting long-term recovery.
Patients who require extended care are transferred to M7/ M8, an intermediate care facility, which are dedicated stroke units. Depending on each patient’s condition and recovery progress, referrals are made to Tygerberg Hospice, Brackengate Transitional Care Facility or the Western Cape Rehabilitation Centre for continued specialised care.
