Early screening for strokes a priority

Yin Qinqin and Tong Wangyue

THE 14th World Stroke Day held last month raised awareness of prevention and treatment of the disease. Stroke screening is listed as one of the major projects in Jiading District.

Early screening is one of the most effective methods to reduce risks and the district’s health authorities have applied big data analysis technology to identify high-risk groups.

Jiading has screened more than 15,000 high-risk patients, completing the task of the year ahead of schedule.

Preliminary screening is carried out at the community health service center and the list of high-risk groups is determined by the secondary hospitals. In the event of a stroke, the hospital will timely transfer the patient for further treatment.

In August, an 81-year-old resident surnamed Yang felt dizzy and went to Waigang Town Community Health Service Center. Considering that Yang had high blood sugar and was a smoker, doctors listed him in the high-risk group and issued a dual referral, which was later confirmed by the district central hospital.

In order to prevent a stroke, the hospital and the community health service center check the medicine use while the family doctors visit him every month.

Last month, a World Stroke Day activity was held at the cultural activity center of Juyuan New Area. Neurology experts from Jiading District Central Hospital, Jiading Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ruijin Hospital North Branch launched a free consulting and diagnosis service for residents.

At present, strokes are increasing among young people. Unhealthy eating habits, long-term consumption of high-calorie and fat food and irregular schedules are all possible factors.