Stroke

Stroke

Stroke is the third leading cause of death among Ethiopian Israelis — a striking contrast to its seventh place among the general Israeli population. The stroke mortality rate stands at 25.2 per 100,000 in the community. Contributing factors include the high prevalence of hypertension (the primary risk factor for stroke), elevated rates of poorly controlled diabetes, and delays in recognizing symptoms and reaching emergency care.

Time is the most critical factor in stroke: every hour of delayed treatment leads to significant brain damage. Stroke symptoms can be identified using the FAST acronym — Face (facial drooping), Arm (arm weakness), Speech (speech difficulty), Time (call an ambulance immediately). Recognizing these symptoms in the languages spoken at home — Hebrew and Amharic — is essential for rapid response.

Modifiable risk factors include: blood pressure control (the primary stroke risk factor), smoking cessation, diabetes management, regular physical activity, and proper nutrition. In Israel, Stroke Units are available at major hospitals and double the chance of full recovery when reached within 4.5 hours of symptom onset.

After a stroke, early and consistent rehabilitation — physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy — can restore much of lost function. Health plans are obligated to provide rehabilitation programs guaranteed for every patient.