The Algarve received the «Angels» award for its ability to detect and treat strokes, making it the first region in the country and the second in Europe to achieve this recognition.
The Algarve was honoured with the «Angels» award, recognising the Portuguese region as the best prepared in Portugal to detect and treat stroke patients.
“This means that, although we have a region typically recognised for its lack of medical care, we are the best organised to treat strokes”, said António Miguel Pina, president of the Intermunicipal Community of the Algarve (AMAL).
The «Angels» award was presented at a ceremony held in Faro, where it was highlighted that the Algarve has been, since 2024, the first «Angels» region in Portugal and the second in Europe. “Yes, while the Algarvians are now better protected against strokes, we still need to raise awareness so that they can help in preventing this disease,” said the mayor of Olhão.
According to the «Angels» organisation, recognising the region for its work in the detection and treatment of strokes “reflects the achievement of significant milestones in the Algarve regarding the quality, collaboration, and commitment of all those involved in the care and treatment” of this condition.
“We welcome this distinction because the Algarve region deserves to receive positive news. There are achievements in the region that merit recognition,” emphasised Ana Marreiros from the Algarve’s Local Health Unit (ULS).
According to the official, efforts to improve stroke survival rates must be maintained, despite the fact that the «Angels» award recognises the commitment of Algarve public entities, particularly in the Health sector, to fighting the disease.
Stroke is the leading cause of death and disability in Portugal, with estimates suggesting that one in four people will experience such an event during their lifetime. Data presented at the ceremony show that the Algarve region experiences an average of 1,300 strokes annually.
The ULS of the Algarve, AMAL, and the National Institute of Medical Emergency (INEM) are the main organisations working together to combat the disease; however, other entities have also contributed to this effort.
Around 20 schools throughout the Algarve currently offer stroke awareness classes; however, the goal is to extend this initiative to all regional educational establishments.
The Ria Formosa School was the first to join the Portuguese «Fast Heroes» project, and two dozen students from this institution discussed how they share what they learn in class with their elders.
The students present assured that they are now better prepared to detect signs of a stroke, such as weakness on one side of the body, alterations or loss of vision, or difficulty speaking. “Once the symptoms are detected, it is necessary to promptly call 112 to notify them of the need for assistance”.
“With this project, we aim to enhance the quality of life for everyone”, stated a nurse involved in the «Fast Heroes» project.
