Cleveland Clinic abu Dhabi is extending its neurological expertise beyond hospital walls with a new outreach program targeting vulnerable populations. Recognizing that stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability – and a largely preventable one – the hospital’s Neurological Institute recently conducted health education and screenings at labor camps in the Industrial City of Abu Dhabi [[1]]. The initiative, focusing on the “BE FAST” recognition tool, aims to empower workers with the knowledge to seek immediate medical attention, perhaps saving lives and minimizing long-term health impacts.
Abu Dhabi, UAE – Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi recently launched a community outreach initiative to raise awareness about stroke, a life-threatening medical emergency. A specialized team of stroke experts and caregivers from the hospital’s Neurological Institute visited labor camps in the Industrial City of Abu Dhabi to educate workers on recognizing the signs of stroke and the importance of rapid response.
The outreach focused on the “BE FAST” acronym – Balance, Eyes, Face, Arms, Speech, and Time – to help individuals quickly identify potential stroke symptoms. These include sudden loss of balance, vision changes or double vision, facial drooping, weakness or numbness in one arm, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, and the critical need to immediately call emergency services.
More than 1,200 people participated in the events, with approximately 40 percent undergoing comprehensive health screenings. These screenings highlighted the importance of early detection and proactive management of chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes, both significant risk factors for stroke. Recognizing these risk factors is crucial, as stroke remains a leading cause of long-term disability worldwide.
“Stroke is a major cause of long-term disability globally, yet it is also one of the most preventable conditions,” said Dr. Syed Irteza Hussain, Head of Neurology at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s Neurological Institute. “Early recognition of symptoms and prompt medical attention can make the difference between a full recovery and permanent disability.”
Dr. Hussain added, “Reflecting a spirit of community, this initiative underscores our ongoing commitment to promoting awareness, prevention, and compassionate care for all. Awareness is the first step toward prevention, and through this campaign, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi is proud to play a leading role in delivering vital health knowledge to those who need it most, supporting the nation’s vision of building a cohesive, empathetic, and healthy society.”
