Advancing Stroke Prevention and Treatment

National Stroke Conference INSC 2026 Concludes in Kochi. Leading national and international stroke experts discussed the latest advances in stroke care, prevention, and treatment

India

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The 19ᵗʰ Annual Conference of the Indian Stroke Association (INSC 2026) was held from 13–15 March 2026 at Grand Hyatt, Kochi, bringing together leading neurologists, stroke specialists, researchers, and healthcare professionals from India and across the globe. The conference aimed to promote knowledge exchange, discuss the latest advances in stroke prevention and treatment, and strengthen stroke care systems in India.

Stroke has emerged as one of the most serious public health challenges in India. According to recent estimates, India records nearly 1.8 million new stroke cases every year, with stroke accounting for one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability in the country. Studies suggest that one in four people worldwide may experience a stroke in their lifetime, and India is witnessing an alarming rise in cases among younger adults due to lifestyle-related risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and smoking. Experts emphasized that timely treatment and improved stroke awareness can significantly reduce mortality and disability.To enhance clinical expertise, pre-conference workshops on 12 March provided hands-on training in critical areas such as intravenous thrombolysis, interventional stroke therapy, stroke rehabilitation, and neurosonology. These sessions were designed to equip clinicians with updated techniques and practical skills necessary for effective stroke management and early intervention.

The main conference from 13–15 March featured keynote lectures, plenary sessions, panel discussions, and interactive scientific sessions focusing on the latest research, emerging therapies, and advances in stroke care. Special sessions for young stroke neurologists, pediatric neurology specialists, and physicians encouraged collaboration and knowledge sharing among professionals from different disciplines.

Loknath Behera, IPS, Managing Director, Kochi Metro Rail Pvt. Ltd., attended INSC 2026 as the Chief Guest. Dr. P. Sreekumar, Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon,  Founder Executive Trustee, Vidyodaya School , Kochi  graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour.

The Organising Committee for INSC 2026 was led by Dr. P.N. Sylaja (Organising Chairman) and Dr. V.G. Pradeep Kumar (Organising Secretary). The Executive Committee of the Indian Stroke Association (ISA) included  Dr. P. Vijaya (President) and Dr. Arvind Sharma (Secretary).

Dr. P. Vijaya, President of ISA, said: “INSC 2026 has been carefully designed to bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and real-world clinical practice in stroke care. As stroke cases continue to rise in India, it is crucial for healthcare professionals to stay updated with the latest treatment protocols, technologies, and evidence-based approaches. Through focused workshops, scientific sessions, and expert-led discussions, the conference  enabled clinicians to gain practical insights into advanced stroke therapies, early intervention strategies, and improved rehabilitation methods. Our aim is to  empower doctors and healthcare teams to deliver faster, more effective treatment and ultimately improve survival rates and recovery outcomes for stroke patients across the country.”

Dr. Arvind Sharma, Secretary of ISA, added: “INSC 2026 served as an important platform for neurologists, physicians, researchers, and allied healthcare professionals to come together and exchange knowledge on the evolving landscape of stroke management. Stroke care requires strong collaboration between multiple specialties, from emergency response and intervention to rehabilitation and long-term patient support. This conference encouraged meaningful discussions on complex clinical cases, emerging research, and innovative treatment approaches. By fostering collaboration and learning from global experts, we aim to strengthen stroke care systems, promote early diagnosis and prevention, and ensure better treatment accessibility for patients across India.”