Mumbai: Emcure Pharmaceuticals Ltd. has launched a nationwide stroke awareness campaign featuring cricket legend MS Dhoni. The initiative aims to educate the public on the critical signs of stroke and the importance of timely intervention, empowering individuals to recognize symptoms and take swift action.
As one of India’s leading pharmaceutical companies, Emcure is deeply committed to improving public health. With stroke being one of the leading causes of death and disability in India—affecting over 1.8 million people annually—Emcure has partnered with Dhoni, who has long been known for his sharp instincts on the cricket field, to raise awareness about the life-threatening condition.
In a compelling video released as part of the campaign, Dhoni urges people to familiarize themselves with the BEFAST approach, a simple and easy-to-remember acronym that can help individuals recognize stroke symptoms quickly:
B stands for Balance loss
E for Eyesight changes
F for Face drooping
A for Arm weakness
S for Speech difficulties
T for Time to call emergency medical services
Dhoni emphasizes the importance of acting swiftly when any of these symptoms appear, just as he would make critical decisions in the heat of a cricket match. “Every second counts, and knowing the signs of stroke and calling for medical help without delay can make the difference between recovery and lasting damage,” Dhoni says in the video.
Dr. N. Ichaporia, a leading neurologist from Pune, underscores the urgency of stroke treatment: “For every minute a stroke goes untreated, the brain loses 1.9 million cells. Immediate intervention at a capable stroke center can drastically improve outcomes, which is why it’s crucial to educate the public on the importance of early recognition and rapid action.”
This collaboration between Emcure and MS Dhoni reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to public health awareness and prevention. The BEFAST approach simplifies the process of identifying a stroke, making it easier for people to act quickly and seek emergency medical care.
