Dr. Vijaya, president of the Indian Stroke Association, during the International Stroke Conference (ISC) 2026 held in the United States. | Photo credit: ARRANGEMENT
New findings from Indian clinical data show that recurrent stroke occurs in up to 20% of patients, highlighting serious gaps in long-term treatment and follow-up. The data were presented by Dr. Vijaya, President of the Indian Stroke Association, during the International Stroke Conference (ISC) 2026 held in the United States.
Speaking at a joint scientific meeting of the American Stroke Association and the Indian Stroke Association, held February 4-6 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, Dr. Vijaya said stroke recurrence is often associated with discontinuation of blood thinners, poor control of hypertension, diabetes and cholesterol and lack of permanent lifestyle change. She emphasized that stroke survivors require lifelong medication and regular medical follow-up, even if they appear to be clinically normal.
According to Monday’s press release, Dr. Vijayi, several developments in stroke care were discussed at the conference. Experts noted that children with acute stroke can benefit from evidence-based treatments used in adults, including intravenous thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy, if diagnosed early. Advances in magnetic resonance imaging and CT have made it possible to safely extend the therapeutic window for clot removal to up to nine hours in selected patients.
Another important recommendation was the prompt referral of suspected stroke patients to advanced stroke centers with advance notice, reinforcing the principle that early treatment is critical in stroke care.
ISC 2026 was attended by more than 5,000 delegates from more than 70 countries, including doctors, researchers, rehabilitation professionals, nurses, politicians and public health professionals.
Published – 09 Feb 2026 19:00 IST
