Hip-Hop Stroke Education Program

In Harlem NY, as in other areas populated by African-American and other minorities, stroke is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. What's most frustrating is that in many instances the real enemy is not necessarily stroke itself, but the lack of knowledge that prohibits its sufferers from getting appropriate treatment. After all, people only have three hours to realize they are having a stroke, to get to the hospital, to get diagnosed with a stroke, and to receive appropriate treatment. This is no small fete, considering that most people cannot even identify a single symptom of stroke.

So how can our medical system make sure to spread the word about stroke, its symptoms and treatments? Just leave it to the children. Seriously! As it turns out studies have shown that this is an effective way of spreading this life-saving information. This was shown by a program called hip-hop stroke education propagated in New York City by Dr. Olajide Williams M.D., (one of my favorite neurology professors). The program empowers children as young as four years of age to take charge of their own health, to spread the word about stroke throughout their community, and every so often, to activate EMS services for people with stroke! The program uses interactive and fun activities such as music and cartoons to get children interested in learning about stroke not only for themselves, but for their parents, grandparents and others.

Related reading
What is a stroke?
Stroke risk factors
Six was to stay stroke free