Stroke is one of the top 3 causes of death and disability worldwide. This year around the world, an estimated 12 million people have a stroke, resulting in 6 million deaths, and leaving half of those who survive with serious disabilities.
 
Despite these bleak figures, major advances in stroke prevention, treatment and rehabilitation over the past 50 years have given us the power to create a healthier, brighter future for patients, families and communities.

But only if these life-changing services are available to everyone.
 
Stroke doesn’t have to be a life sentence. As world leaders come together to agree on shared priorities for health, we want to remind them that:

• Stroke is preventable - With 80% of strokes linked to preventable risk factors, Effective primary and secondary healthcare interventions could cut the overall stroke burden in half, and yield a tenfold financial return.
• Stroke is treatable - Even the most serious strokes can be treated. Expanding access to thrombolysis (IVT) and  mechanical thrombectomy will save lives and reduce disability.
• Stroke is recoverable - Rehabilitation improves long-term recovery yet 20 - 40% of healthcare systems lack basic rehabilitation services. Closing this gap will reduce the risk of long-term disabilities, improve functional and economic independence and improve people’s quality of life.

Every minute counts.
Prioritizing stroke in global policy and national health strategies will save millions of lives and protect the quality of lives for countless more.
 
That’s why I stand with the Global Stroke Action Coalition and call on world leaders to commit to #StrokeActionNow