4,500 NEW STROKE CASES EVERY YEAR

BANJA LUKA, OCTOBER 29 /SRNA/ - Stroke is reaching epidemic proportions in Republika Srpska, with around 4,500 new cases every year, according to data from the University Clinical Center /UCC/ of Srpska.

"An increasing trend of stroke has been observed among middle-aged people, aged 40 to 60, which in our region is attributed to the increased presence of stress as a risk factor," the UCC said on World Stroke Day, marked today. It is essential, they said, to recognize the signs of a stroke early, such as weakness on one side of the body, speech difficulties, a "drooping mouth", frequently clouded consciousness, sometimes headache and disorientation, and to receive urgent treatment in a specialized stroke unit. They stressed that stroke is a serious health challenge whose consequences may require long-term recovery, rehabilitation and adjustments to daily life. That is why, in addition to timely treatment and professional medical care, it is very important to ensure continued support after hospital treatment ends. On World Stroke Day, the Neurology Clinic was visited by representatives of the Banja Luka citizens’ association "M'udar", which brings together stroke survivors, their family members and other citizens interested in improving support for people after a stroke. Acting Director General of the Republika Srpska UCC Nikola Šobot said the UCC recognizes the importance of continuously improving healthcare and patient support. He stressed that cooperation with citizens' associations is an important way of connecting the professional capacities of healthcare institutions with the needs of patients and their families.