Bulgaria Establishes National Stroke Awareness Day

12 Dec 2025

Five years after Dorina Dobreva set out to create Bulgaria’s first national patient organization for stroke survivors, her vision has become reality. The founder and Chair of the Association for Stroke and Aphasia (ASA-Bulgaria) — also National Coordinator for the European Stroke Action Plan, Board Member of the Stroke Alliance for Europe (SAFE), and member of the Campaign Committee of the World Stroke Organization (WSO) — now leads the effort that places Bulgaria firmly on Europe’s stroke map.

On November 11, Bulgaria marks for the first time National Stroke Awareness Day, established at the initiative of ASA-Bulgaria — a milestone toward a unified national policy for prevention, treatment, and life after stroke. Each year, over 50,000 Bulgarians suffer a stroke — among the highest rates in Europe. About 10% die during the acute treatment phase, and another 22% within the first year. More than half of survivors live with long-term disability, underscoring the urgent need for coordinated national action. The establishment of a national awareness day has received endorsement from the world’s most influential stroke and aphasia organizations, acknowledging Bulgaria’s leadership in patient advocacy and systemic change.

"This historic step is an inspiring example for the global community — how patient organizations can lead change through compassion, collaboration, and civic engagement." — Jean-Marie Annoni, President, International Association for Aphasia (AIA)

"Your initiative draws vital attention to the urgent need for better prevention, treatment, and post-stroke support across the country." — Prof. Hariklia Proios, President, SAFE

"This achievement reflects Bulgaria’s growing commitment to improving stroke care and long-term outcomes." — Prof. Simona Sacco, President, European Stroke Organisation (ESO)

"The establishment of a National Stroke Awareness Day is a key step forward in global collaboration and awareness." — Prof. Bo Norrving and Prof. Sheila Martins, Co-Chairs, Global Stroke Action Coalition

"On behalf of the World Stroke Organization (WSO), I warmly congratulate ASA-Bulgaria on this landmark initiative. Your leadership will inspire continued progress in stroke prevention, treatment and life after stroke." — Prof. Jeyaraj Pandian, President, WSO

As emphasized by Dr. Georgi H. Georgiev, Vice-Chair of ASA-Bulgaria: "Stroke has many faces — medical, social, and human. For too long, it was seen as inevitable. Today, Bulgaria is changing that narrative. Through the National Day, we create a lasting space for dialogue — uniting knowledge, experience, and human will."

two men in suits and one woman signing a formal declaration

Government of Bulgaria establlishes National Stroke Awareness DAy

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