Stroke Incidence and Impact - One in five individuals will experience a stroke in their lifetime [1] - In Spain, over 100,000 people suffer a stroke each year [1] - Stroke is the second leading cause of death in men and the leading cause in women in Spain [1] Ischemic Penumbra and Treatment - The ischemic penumbra is the area of the brain at risk of dying after a stroke, but potentially recoverable [4][5][7] - Recanalizing the blocked artery can "recharge" the brain cells in the penumbra [6][7] - Technology allows measurement of the dead (red) and at-risk (green) areas of the brain after a stroke [8] Stroke Treatment Advancements - Thrombolytic drugs accelerate the natural process of breaking up blood clots [10] - Mechanical thrombectomy, involving the physical removal of clots, was approved in 2015 and implemented in Albacete [20][21][22] - Albacete has performed at least 150 mechanical thrombectomies annually since 2015 [23] Code Stroke System - A "code stroke" system was implemented to ensure rapid transport and treatment of stroke patients [11][12] - The code stroke system in Castilla Mancha was extended to the entire region by 2008 [12]

Addiction & Brain Impact - Addiction is defined as a progressive reduction of things that bring pleasure, accompanied by negative consequences [4] - Addiction significantly alters the brain, especially the prefrontal cortex (responsible for judgment, self-control, and long-term planning) and the reward system [6] - Brain scans show reduced blood flow in the prefrontal lobe of drug abusers, affecting decision-making [8][9] - In addiction, the brain's reward system is altered, narrowing life's focus to seeking immediate gratification despite harmful consequences [7][10] Neuroplasticity & Recovery - The brain possesses neuroplasticity, enabling it to reorganize, create new connections, and relearn healthy behaviors even after addiction-related damage [13] - Psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy can help change thought patterns and behaviors [15] - Healthy habits like exercise, sufficient sleep, and good nutrition support brain regeneration [15] - Spirituality, including meditation and prayer, may contribute to recovery and reduce compulsive cravings [16] Conclusion - Addiction is a real issue with profound effects, but recovery is also real and powerful [17] - Neuroscience offers hope, indicating that the brain can heal, connections can regenerate, and the prefrontal cortex can recover its function [17]