Ruby Hall Clinic Launches Pune’s First Stroke Care Support Group on World Stroke Day 2026

Pune, October 29, 2026: On the occasion of World Stroke Day, Ruby Hall Clinic launched its Stroke Care Support Group along with its official logo, aiming to provide long-term assistance to stroke survivors and their families.

The hospital described the initiative as Pune's first dedicated stroke care support group, designed to extend care beyond hospital treatment through rehabilitation guidance, emotional support, awareness and community participation.

The programme aims to help patients and caregivers navigate the physical, psychological and everyday challenges that may continue long after a stroke.

Stroke Cases and Long-Term Disability Raise Concerns in India

Stroke remains a major public health concern in India, with studies indicating an increasing burden of the condition.

According to a study published in Scientific Reports, based on Global Burden of Disease data, the reported stroke incidence rate in India increased from 76 per 100,000 people in 1990 to 88 per 100,000 in 2021.

Another analysis estimated more than 5.35 lakh new stroke cases in India in 2019, representing an increase of 118.8% compared with 1990.

Data from a hospital-based stroke registry covering 34,792 patients across 30 centres between 2020 and 2022 showed that 13.8% of patients were younger than 45.

The registry also found that only 20.1% of patients reached a hospital within four-and-a-half hours of symptom onset, while 29.7% experienced significant disability three months after their stroke.

These findings highlight the importance of recognising symptoms early, seeking immediate medical attention and ensuring continued rehabilitation.

Support Group to Focus on Recovery and Emotional Well-Being

Ruby Hall Clinic's new support group aims to create a platform where stroke survivors and their caregivers can share experiences, interact with medical professionals and learn about rehabilitation options.

The initiative will also focus on helping families understand the emotional and practical challenges associated with recovery.

Speaking at the launch, Dr Purvez K. Grant, Chief Cardiologist, Chairman and Managing Trustee of Ruby Hall Clinic, said recovery after a stroke can be lengthy and demanding for patients and caregivers.

He explained that the group is intended to provide guidance, encouragement and a supportive environment throughout the recovery process.

Doctors Stress Importance of Continued Rehabilitation

Dr Kapil Zirpe, Head of the Neuro-Intensive Care Unit, emphasised that stroke care does not end once a patient's condition stabilises.

He highlighted the need for regular medical follow-ups, sustained rehabilitation and active family involvement to support recovery.

Dr Sunil Bandishti, Head of the Neurology Department, noted that stroke survivors may experience difficulties with movement, speech, cognitive abilities and emotional health.

He said connecting patients with others who have undergone similar experiences could help reduce isolation and encourage greater participation in rehabilitation.

Through the Stroke Care Support Group, Ruby Hall Clinic aims to strengthen awareness about life after stroke while promoting a more comprehensive, patient-centred approach to long-term recovery.