We need more awareness on strokes and how to prevent them

Our readers have their say on strokes, being a listener and the Dubai police

Between 10,000 and 12,000 people suffer strokes in the UAE each year, with 50 per cent of victims aged under 45. Silvia Razgova / The National

I write to you in reference to Shireena Al Nowais' piece UAE physicians highlight stroke danger on World Stroke Day (October 29).

Strokes are becoming a worldwide phenomenon, affecting 20 million people every year across the globe –
about one-third of whom lose their lives as a consequence. There is still a lack of knowledge and awareness around this major health issue.Strokes are fundamentally a result of decreased blood flow to the brain.  They occur suddenly and most people fail to recognise the signs of a stroke because it is painless. This means that there is a higher chance of delayed treatment in stroke patients.

However, in almost 80 per cent of cases, strokes are completely preventable if proper, timely care is given and risk factors are controlled.

Strokes are treatable and preventable. However, there is a need for more well-equipped hospitals and rehabilitation centres worldwide with specialised medical staff.

It’s also important that awareness initiatives expand and reach out to rural areas to ensure that a maximum number of people are adequately informed and educated about its symptoms and treatment.

Dr Sreekanta Swamy, Bengaluru

We should all work on becoming better listeners every day

I write to you in reference to Justin Thomas' piece Silence is golden but it can also be elusive (May 19).

To become a good listener we need patience and practice. Listening is key to building a strong relationship. A good listener gets involves completely in the conversation by sharing their valuable time and paying attention. We have a tendency to interrupt. We don’t listen to understand, we listen to reply. We should be more attentive.

By enhancing our listening skills, we become more credible and trustworthy. Be humble while responding. By doing so, more strong and positive relationships are built. At the same time, one must be wary of people whose words don’t match their actions.

Rather than focusing on who is right or wrong, try not to be judgemental when you listen to others talk. What is essential is that we come together as a community and communicate.

Lamiya Siraj, Abu Dhabi

Congratulations to Dubai police, a top-notch security force

I write to you in reference to Rory Reynolds' piece Police arrest European 'safe-breaker' disguised in abaya after City Walk break-in (November 2).

Dubai police are the most professional security force in the world. You cannot escape them if you commit a crime in Dubai.

Naz Esmael, Dubai