Chennai, 27th May,2025: Prashanth Hospitals, one of Chennai’s leading multi- speciality hospitals, responds to increasing stroke cases in the city by launching its inaugural awareness campaign on stroke titled, #StopTheBlock. With an aim to reach over 2 million Chennai citizens, this innovative campaign features a mobile unit with a life-size model brain coupled with engaging activities such as flash mobs, mime performances, skits, interactive games with prizes, etc.
With both summer and winter seasons witnessing rise in Stroke cases across the city and the country, Prashanth Hospitals has launched #StopTheBlock initiative this summer to help people take timely and appropriate preventive measures starting from now and continuing through the winter months. This initiative was flagged off by Mr. Kanakaraj, Assistant Commissioner of Police earlier today in the presence of the Management team at Prashanth Hospitals, Doctors, support staff and the common public.
Dr. Prashanth Krishna, the Managing Director of Prashanth Hospitals, expressed his enthusiasm for this campaign, stating the gravity of stroke as a significant public health challenge both nationally and globally, stated, “After Save Young Hearts campaign, I see this #StopTheBlock is yet another meaningful and relevant initiative for the health of our citizens. Our goal is to raise awareness about the vital ‘golden hour’ in stroke treatment, reaching an estimated 1 to 2 million residents across Chennai. Educating the community on recognizing symptoms and acting swiftly can significantly reduce risks and save lives.”
Adding to this, Dr Pari Muthukumar – Medical Director of Prashanth Hospitals Kolathur, said “Chennai has witnessed a concerning rise in stroke cases in recent years, mirroring national and global trends. India experienced a 51% increase in stroke incidence over the past three decades, with over 1.25 million new cases reported in 2021 alone. Several factors contribute to this surge, including sedentary lifestyles, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and stress. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated these issues, leading to increased stroke cases among younger populations. Despite advancements, early recognition and timely medical intervention remain critical. To ensure this, we have launched our #StopThe Block Campaign and we are confident that through this initiative we will continue to work with the citizens of Chennai to mitigate stroke in the right and timely manner.”
#StopTheBlock initiative aims to take life-saving stroke education directly to communities through interactive outreach at schools, public spaces, and high-footfall areas across the city. This mobile unit will be equipped with audio-visual content, informative brochures, and on-site educators who will engage with the public in high-footfall areas, including marketplaces, transport hubs, and residential neighborhoods. The goal is to reach underserved sections of the population and ensure that stroke awareness becomes accessible, inclusive, and city-wide. Community members and organizations are encouraged to participate and can reach out at 99417 66850 to collaborate or host awareness activities in their respective areas, including schools, colleges, and public hotspots.
