Joko’s ordeal began with a sudden weakness on one side of his body. Like many others who experience unknown symptoms, he hoped the problem would resolve itself. The days turned into a week, and the lingering weakness robbed him of his ability to work and support his family. Only then did Joko seek help at his local health center. The diagnosis hit hard: Joko had probably suffered a stroke a week earlier. The general practitioner gave the serious news that the “golden period” for optimal treatment is over. Recognizing the need for specialized care, the doctor referred Joko to a hospital with a neurologist—a facility two hours away.

For Joko, the revelation came as a profound shock. Although he was aware of the concept of stroke, he never imagined himself as a victim. The realization that he could no longer care for his loved ones left him struggling with feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness.

Neurological disorders, with stroke at the fore, represent a staggering challenge to global health. A 2024 World Health Organization report reveals that these conditions affect over a third of the world’s population, making them the leading cause of health loss and disability worldwide. Since 1990, we have seen an alarming 18% increase in disability, disease and premature death from neurological disorders, with a disproportionate 80% increase in low- and middle-income countries, a stark reminder of global health inequities.

Stroke, which is defined as an episode of neurologic dysfunction caused by a focal cerebral, spinal, or retinal infarction that persists for more than 24 hours or until death caused primarily by a neurovascular problem, takes a devastating toll, data from global burden of disease 2019 reporting 12.2. million incidents globally, making it the second leading cause of death and third leading cause of disability worldwide.

Indonesia faces a particularly dire situation, with the prevalence of stroke rising from 7% in 2013 to 10.9% in 2018, and predictions suggest it could affect up to 30% of the population in the future. The country’s 2018 Basic Health Survey indicated that 2.5 in 1,000 Indonesians are at risk of developing a stroke, with mortality and disability rates of 15% and 65%, respectively. This health crisis is straining national resources, highlighted by the amount of Rp 2.5 trillion ($158 million) allocated by Indonesia’s National Health Insurance (BPJS) for stroke treatment in 2020 alone, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive prevention strategies and treatment to combat this growing epidemic.

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As we celebrate World Stroke Day, Joko’s story is a powerful reminder of the work that remains to be done in the fight against stroke. It is a strong call for better stroke awareness, prevention and care, not just in Indonesia, but globally. Based on Joko’s experience and the alarming statistics, several key areas require our attention to reduce the burden of stroke in Indonesia and around the world.