Stroke incidence increases after age 65

Abdul Kareem Al-Abdullah

Dr. Abeer Al-Tajalli, President of the Kuwaiti Physical Therapy Association, emphasized the importance of raising awareness about stroke prevention and identifying its warning signs, while keeping pace with the latest therapeutic and rehabilitation methods. She noted that managing stroke patients requires a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach involving various medical and health specialties.

Speaking on the occasion of the Association’s scientific forum, themed “Stroke: A Meeting with Experts,” Al-Tajalli stated that the event is part of the Kuwaiti Physical Therapy Association’s celebrations for World Physical Therapy Day, observed annually on September 8. The World Federation of Physical Therapy has designated 2026 as the year of “Cardiovascular Diseases and Strokes.”

She highlighted that strokes are among the leading causes of death globally, particularly in Kuwait, and that persistent motor disabilities resulting from strokes are the second leading cause of disability worldwide. She added: “According to some statistics from Kuwait, the incidence of strokes increases with age. Therefore, it is essential to intensify awareness campaigns and prioritize stroke prevention.”

Al-Tajalli explained that the scientific forum was preceded by a public event held in collaboration with a private hospital, aimed at educating the public about cardiovascular diseases and highlighting the role of physical therapy in rehabilitating heart patients and helping them gradually return to their daily lives and communities. The event also focused on raising awareness about recognizing stroke warning signs to avoid complications.

She added that the role of physical therapy extends from the acute initial phase of a stroke through to the rehabilitation stage, with the goal of restoring patients’ motor and functional abilities, improving their quality of life, and enhancing their independence.

Al-Tajalli noted that heart diseases are among the most significant risk factors for strokes, emphasizing that prevention can be largely controlled through regular exercise, a healthy diet, and avoiding harmful habits, particularly smoking and physical inactivity.

She concluded by stating that the forum aims to shed light on the latest pharmacological, surgical, and behavioral treatments. The Association is hosting a distinguished group of physicians and specialists, reflecting its belief in the importance of a comprehensive medical team approach in providing holistic care for stroke patients.