Fortis Hospital Noida has introduced ‘ASHA | आशा’, the first-ever dedicated 24×7 stroke helpline in the Noida region, aimed at reducing the critical delay between the onset of stroke symptoms and the start of treatment. Designed to respond to one of the most time-sensitive medical emergencies, the initiative reinforces a core principle of stroke care—every moment matters, and faster action can save brain function and lives.
The helpline, ASHA (meaning “hope”), serves as an immediate support system for patients and families during emergencies. By enabling rapid medical coordination, it helps ensure that individuals experiencing stroke symptoms receive expert attention without delay, particularly during the crucial “golden hour”—the first 60 minutes after symptom onset, when timely intervention can significantly lower the risk of death or long-term disability.
Accessible via 6230 93 6230, the ASHA Stroke Helpline connects callers instantly with trained medical professionals who provide emergency guidance, arrange ambulance support, and notify stroke specialists ahead of the patient’s arrival at the hospital. This advance preparedness allows treatment to begin as soon as the patient reaches the facility.
The helpline also plays a vital role in public awareness by helping callers identify early stroke symptoms using the internationally recognized BE-FAST method—Balance issues, Eye or vision loss, Facial drooping, Arm or limb weakness, and Slurred speech—enabling faster recognition and response.
Dr. Rahul Gupta, Senior Director & HOD – Neurosurgery at Fortis Hospital, Noida said,
“Every year, India reports nearly 15-18 lakh new stroke cases, yet barely one in ten people receive definitive therapy such as thrombolysis. This gap is not due to lack of medical capability, but because awareness of symptoms and urgency are missing. In stroke, every second counts: for each minute of delay, millions of brain cells die, dramatically raising the risk of permanent disability, cognitive loss, or even death. Fortis Noida’s Stroke Helpline ‘Asha’ bridges the critical gap between first symptoms and expert care, enabling families to quickly recognize warning signs, secure immediate expert advice and ensure patients reach a hospital capable of life-saving stroke therapy within the golden window. When it comes to stroke, time is brain – and Asha brings hope when it matters most.”
Dr. Jyoti Bala, Director & Head, Neurology at Fortis Hospital, Noida added, “Early detection and immediate treatment to restore blood flow to the brain are key in successful stroke treatment. Depending on the patient’s condition, doctors use clot-dissolving medicines or mechanical thrombectomy, a minimally invasive procedure to remove the clot. While the treatment window can extend up to 4.5 hours, outcomes are significantly better within the first 60 minutes post onset of symptoms. Every minute saved protects the brain.”
Dr. Neha Pandita, Senior Consultant, Neurology, Fortis Noida said, “India faces one of the highest stroke burdens globally, driven by risk factors – hypertension, diabetes, obesity, stress, and poor sleep. But the bigger crisis is lack of awareness. Stroke is a medical emergency requiring early assessment and timely medical attention and intervention as brain cells die within minutes as oxygen and blood supply is interrupted. Eight out of 10 strokes can be prevented through simple changes in lifestyle like exercising regularly and quitting smoking and keeping blood pressure and diabetes in check.”
Mohit Singh, Zonal Director, Fortis Hospital Noida said, “‘Asha’- Our new 24×7 stroke helpline means expert stroke care is just a call away – wherever you are. Backed by trained nurses, emergency physicians, and neurologists available around the clock, backed by tele-stroke support even for patients in remote areas, we’re making sure every patient gets the right care at the right time.”
Through the launch of ASHA, Fortis Hospital Noida aims to strengthen emergency stroke response, improve awareness, and ensure faster access to advanced neurological care across the region.