Why stroke matters
A stroke can happen to anyone, at anytime and anywhere. Today stroke is the leading cause of disability worldwide and the second leading cause of death, but almost all strokes could be prevented.
A stroke can happen to anyone, at anytime and anywhere. Today stroke is the leading cause of disability worldwide and the second leading cause of death, but almost all strokes could be prevented.
Stroke affects 1 in 4 of us. This year 12.2 million people will have a stroke, 6.5 million - over half - will die as a result.Worldwide 110 million people have experieneced stroke and live with impacts that can include severe physical disability, communication difficulties, changes in how they think and feel, loss of work, income and social networks.
Improving prevention and treatment of stroke and providing on going support with rehabilitiation and life after stroke is essential.
Raising awareness of key issues in stroke - find out about our World Stroke Campaign
Find out moreStroke happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. Without blood, brain cells can be damaged or die.
Find out more1 in 4 of us will have a stroke in our lifetime, but almost all strokes can be prevented.
Find out moreKey facts about stroke treatment and what matters for prevention and recovery.
Find out more80m people living in the world have experienced a stroke. We work to raise awareness of what it takes to get up again after stroke.
Find out moreWe are grateful to our sponsors who support our campaigning work, helping us to deliver a world free from stroke.