A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to part of your brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. Brain cells begin to die in minutes. Early action can reduce brain damage and other complications.

World Stroke day is celebrated on 29 October every year with an aim to spread awareness and inform people about the signs, symptoms, and prevention of stroke. The World Stroke Association aims to fight against the stigma related to a stroke.

World stroke day was celebrated in the year 2006 for the first time by the World Stroke Association which was formed in the same year after the World Stroke Foundation (WSF) merged with the International Stroke Society (ISS)

This day is celebrated to promote a healthy lifestyle so that fewer people suffer from stroke. This makes people be alert and become proactive in taking care of themselves to prevent strokes. Quit smoking, reduce drinking and lead a healthy lifestyle with a healthy diet.

The theme for world stroke day this year is #precious time which aims to raise awareness about the symptoms of having a stroke so that people can take action and save lives.