Facts & Figures

This is a quick reference guide to:

However, the great news is that 80% of strokes are preventable!

Reduce your risk of stroke by following the suggestions outlined in the box below.

Stroke is a serious health issue and a medical emergency

BUT DO YOU KNOW THAT 80% OF STROKES CAN BE PREVENTED?

You can reduce your risk of stroke by:

having regular blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol tests, to check whether your levels are normal.
If they are high your doctor or nurse may suggest ways of reducing them
having regular checks on the health of your heart. If it is abnormal your doctor may suggest treatment
stopping smoking.

WHY NOT START TODAY?

Click on the topics below to find out more.

What causes stroke?

Stroke is caused by a blockage of blood supply to, or a bleed within, the brain.

How to recognise stroke and transient ischemic attack

Many people are not aware of the symptoms of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) and often do not go to hospital if either of these events happen.
Symptoms of stroke are sudden. Common ones include:
- numbness or weakness of face, arm or leg – especially on one side of the body
- vision problems
- loss of coordination
- confusion or trouble speaking or understanding
- severe headache.
Symptoms of a TIA are similar to stroke, but last only minutes or hours. Only a doctor can tell the difference between a TIA and a stroke. Do not wait to see if it goes away. If someone has the symptoms, phone for emergency medical help immediately.

What to do if stroke happens

Stroke is a medical emergency. If someone has a stroke, phone for emergency medical assistance urgently.
Even though the symptoms of a TIA are short-lasting and may not seem severe, a TIA is a medical emergency. Seek medical assistance urgently. Do not wait to see if ‘it goes away’.

Why is stroke a major health issue?

Around 15 million people worldwide suffer from stroke every year
About a quarter of strokes happen in people aged under 65 years
Stroke leaves around a third of its victims permanently disabled
Recurrent stroke is common in stroke survivors and around a quarter of people who recover from their first stroke will have another one within 5 years. Generally, a doctor will assess any underlying stroke risk factors and advise how these can be managed to reduce the risk of another stroke

Risk factors for stroke

The main cause of stroke is high blood pressure. High blood pressure increases your risk of stroke by 4-6 times
Several factors have been directly linked to an increased risk of stroke, including those listed below

Direct risk factor for stroke

Which direct stroke risk factors are in your life? Banish them!

References