India Faces Stroke Epidemic with 1.8 Million New Cases Annually

India is grappling with a surge in brain stroke cases, recording over 1.8 million new occurrences each year, which translates to a stroke happening every 20 seconds, as highlighted during the launch of a nationwide awareness campaign titled ‘Brain Stroke - Time to Act’ on July 20, 2025, in Hyderabad. The campaign, initiated by the Indian Stroke Association (ISA), aims to enhance public awareness regarding prevention and timely intervention, which remains alarmingly low despite the high incidence of strokes across the nation.

P. Vijaya, President of the ISA, underscored the universal risk posed by strokes, affecting individuals irrespective of age, gender, or socioeconomic status. She noted that ischemic strokes are the most prevalent in India, yet a mere 1% of eligible patients receive the life-saving intravenous thrombolysis treatment within the critical 4.5-hour window post-symptom onset. “Recognizing the symptoms of a stroke, such as sudden weakness, difficulty in speech, or loss of vision, is crucial for effective treatment,” Vijaya stated.

The event also featured insights from Subhash Kaul, a consultant neurologist at KIMS Hospital in Secunderabad, who emphasized the need for swift action in cases of intracerebral hemorrhages, which are particularly deadly. “Public education is vital for early detection and intervention,” Kaul remarked.

Moreover, Salil Uppal, treasurer of the ISA, highlighted the alarming link between hypertension and strokes, revealing that one in four adults in India suffers from high blood pressure, which is the leading risk factor for stroke, especially hemorrhagic ones. He urged adults over the age of 18 to monitor their blood pressure at least annually to mitigate risks.

The campaign is a collaborative effort between the ISA, the Indian Association of Physicians-Hyderabad Chapter, and the Society for Emergency Medicine India, reflecting a concerted approach to tackle this growing health crisis. The implications of this stroke epidemic are profound, with potential economic burdens on the healthcare system and the societal impact of increased morbidity.

Historically, India has not prioritized stroke awareness despite the rising statistics. As per a 2022 report from the World Health Organization (WHO), strokes account for 10% of all deaths globally, with low and middle-income countries bearing a disproportionate burden. The need for preventive healthcare and public education is critical to combat this challenge effectively.

Looking ahead, experts suggest that enhanced training for healthcare providers, improved access to emergency services, and regular public health campaigns could significantly reduce stroke incidence and improve outcomes for patients. The ISA's campaign marks a pivotal step in addressing the urgent need for education and awareness surrounding stroke prevention and treatment in India.