“Minutes Count”: Heart Surgeon Urges Quick Action as Stroke Cases Rise Globally

New Delhi | 18 March 2026 A senior cardiovascular expert, Dr Jeremy London, has warned that immediate action during a stroke can save lives, stressing that “So minutes count with a stroke.” With over 25 years of experience, he highlighted that strokes caused by disrupted blood flow to the brain remain one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. According to the World Stroke Organisation, nearly 1 in 4 adults over the age of 25 is at risk of experiencing a stroke in their lifetime. Each year, over 12 million people suffer their first stroke globally, and around 6.5 million deaths are linked to the condition. Medical experts emphasise that early recognition and timely treatment are crucial to prevent severe brain damage. Sharing awareness through social media, Dr London explained that people can easily remember stroke symptoms using the ‘BE FAST’ method Balance issues, Eye problems, Facial drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and Time to call emergency services. He advised that even a single symptom should not be ignored, as quick response can significantly improve recovery chances. He also cautioned against self-transport to hospitals, noting that emergency teams can begin treatment during transit. “You shouldn't drive yourself or someone else to the hospital because therapy can be instituted in the ambulance, and they can notify the stroke team that you're going to arrive.” Emphasising urgency, he added, “Time equals brain tissue saved. So remember, recognise the signs of stroke: BE FAST. Call the emergency “Minutes Count”: Heart Surgeon Urges Quick Action as Stroke Cases Rise Globally A senior cardiovascular expert, Dr Jeremy London, has warned that immediate action during a stroke can save lives, stressing that “So minutes count with a stroke.” With over 25 years of experience, he highlighted that strokes caused by disrupted blood flow to the brain remain one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. According to the World Stroke Organisation, nearly 1 in 4 adults over the age of 25 is at risk of experiencing a stroke in their lifetime. Each year, over 12 million people suffer their first stroke globally, and around 6.5 million deaths are linked to the condition. Medical experts emphasise that early recognition and timely treatment are crucial to prevent severe brain damage. Sharing awareness through social media, Dr London explained that people can easily remember stroke symptoms using the ‘BE FAST’ method Balance issues, Eye problems, Facial drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and Time to call emergency services. He advised that even a single symptom should not be ignored, as quick response can significantly improve recovery chances. He also cautioned against self-transport to hospitals, noting that emergency teams can begin treatment during transit. “You shouldn't drive yourself or someone else to the hospital because therapy can be instituted in the ambulance, and they can notify the stroke team that you're going to arrive.” Emphasising urgency, he added, “Time equals brain tissue saved. So remember, recognise the signs of stroke: BE FAST. Call the emergency number.”