On May 18, 2024, the Stroke Team from B.P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences (BPKIHS) orchestrated a significant Community Awareness Program in Dharan Ward No. 1. This initiative, blending stroke care education with hypertension and diabetes screening, sought to elevate public health consciousness and offer essential health services to local residents.
Objectives
1. Raise Awareness on Stroke Care:
Educate the community on recognizing stroke symptoms.
Highlight the importance of timely medical intervention.
Promote understanding of stroke prevention methods.
2. HealthScreening:
Screen participants for hypertension and diabetes.
Provide preliminary health assessments.
Advise on follow-up medical consultations for those at risk.
Activities
1. Educational Sessions:
Stroke Awareness:
Definition and types of strokes.
Recognizing symptoms (e.g., FAST: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, Time to call emergency services).
Importance of immediate medical attention.
Prevention Tips: Healthy lifestyle choices to reduce stroke risk.
Importance of regular medical check-ups.
2. Health Screening:
● Blood Pressure Measurement:
● Each participant had their blood pressure checked.
● Blood Glucose Testing:
● Participants were tested for blood sugar levels to screen for diabetes.
● Counseling:
Personalized advice based on screening results.
Recommendations for lifestyle modifications and medical follow-up.
Participation
● Community Members:
A total of 73 residents from Dharan Ward No. 1 participated in the program.
Participants showed keen interest in understanding stroke care and managing their health.
● 10 volunteers from the Stroke Team – BPKIHS & its Students’ Wing in organizing and facilitating the event.
Outcomes
● Increased Awareness:
● Participants reported a better understanding of stroke symptoms and the urgency required in stroke care.
● Many expressed intentions to adopt healthier lifestyle practices to prevent stroke.
● Health Monitoring:
Several participants discovered elevated blood pressure and blood glucose levels.
Immediate counseling was provided to those at risk, with recommendations for further medical evaluation.
Feedback
Participant Responses:
Positive feedback on the educational content and the screening process.
Appreciation for the hands-on approach and personal health assessments.
Volunteer Experience: Volunteers found the experience enriching and expressed a desire to participate in future health initiatives.
Conclusion
The Community Awareness Program on Stroke Care and the Hypertension and Diabetes Screening conducted by the Stroke Team BPKIHS was a significant success. The event not only raised critical awareness about stroke prevention and care but also provided valuable health screenings to the local population. The program demonstrated the importance of community engagement in health initiatives and set a precedent for future health education and screening events in the region.