Stroke is one of the five top causes of death in the world and
it is the most frequent cause of physical and mental disability. During the
past few years our knowledge of cause, risks and treatment of stroke has
greatly increased. New thrombolytic agents and protective medications have
become available and the value of the stroke unit in improving outcome has
been widely accepted. Identification of risk factors, advances in the
modification of, for example, lipid disorder, and the development of new
antihypertensive medications with a high degree of protection, have greatly
enhanced our ability to treat stroke. The value of endarterectomy and
carotid stent has been recognised and the multi-disciplinary team approach
to the treatment of acute stroke is being adopted in all major health
institutions, with notably good effect. Acceptance of the guidelines on the
methodology for primary and secondary protection will continue to be of
benefit to patients and care-givers
In the latter part of 2001 the Saudi Advisory Group Against
Stroke (SAGAS) was formed and was
adopted by the Saudi Heart Association. The Group comprises interested
individuals from the disciplines of neurology, cardiology, nephrology and
diabetology.
SAGAS is aware of the challenge in the fight against stroke and
we have adopted the slogan "Don't let stroke strike ". This is our major
mission. We believe that with the help of all health professionals we can
reach our goals, which are:
In this first issue of SAGAS periodical we introduce the mission
and objectives of the Group, give an overview of the epidemiology of stroke
in Saudi Arabia, and a few notes about locally published risk factors. In
subsequent issues we will address different themes on stroke and its related
problems.
We shall work together towards our objective:
DON'T LET STROKE STRIKE !
Saeed Bohlega, FRCPC, FRCP(Edin)