On National Stroke Patient Day, INEM announced today that the number of stroke-suspected patients referred to hospital green pathways is lower than last year when 8,796 patients were sent. However, it is the second highest since 2019.
INEM attributes this reduction of 910 cases to the exclusion from the analysis of stroke cases where symptoms had started more than 24 hours before the 112 call, previously counted., stated a press release.
On the other hand, the enhancement of professional training has allowed for more precise identification of Stroke Green Pathways, reducing false positives.
According to INEM, the district of Porto registered the highest number of cases processed through the Stroke Green Pathway, with 1,539 patients, followed by Lisbon and Setúbal, with 1,526 and 626 cases, respectively.
In 2024, of the total cases registered in pre-hospital settings, 77% of people were over 65 years old and 52% were female.
The first hours after the onset of stroke symptoms are crucial, according to INEM, explaining that this is the timeframe where main treatments are most effective.
For this reason, it advises calling 112 if symptoms such as arm weakness, drooping mouth, or speech difficulties arise.
“Collaborating with professionals at the Urgent Patient Guidance Center (CODU) is fundamental for proper triage and referral of all suspected stroke situations,” adds.
A stroke is a sudden neurological deficit caused by ischemia (insufficient blood supply) or brain hemorrhage and remains one of the leading causes of death in Portugal, states INEM.
It is also the main cause of morbidity and potential years of life lost among cardiovascular diseases.
INEM emphasizes that stroke prevention involves adopting healthy lifestyles, avoiding smoking and sedentary living, and paying special attention to diseases like hypertension, diabetes, and cardiac arrhythmias.
