Research Appeal 2009
Will you help us to identify the genes that might cause stroke?
Dr Mary Joan Macleod from the University of Aberdeen has carried out research into stroke genes, which has been funded by The Stroke Association. This research project has the potential to revolutionise stroke prevention and help to achieve a world where fewer people’s lives are devastated by stroke.
In recent years, thanks to advances in the technology we use to look at genes, the momentum behind this work to identify ‘stroke genes’ has accelerated rapidly.
“The starting point for our work is a simple observation. If two people have the same level of blood pressure, and lead similar lifestyles, why is one of those people likely to have a stroke and one not? Previous studies looking at the risk of stroke in families and twins have proved that the answer lies in genetics.
If we can now find out exactly which inherited characteristics pass on the risk of stroke, we can target people whose families have a history of stroke and screen them to see if stroke risk genes are present. We can then greatly reduce the risk of that person having a stroke in two ways: by developing treatments which can lessen the risk and by advising that person to make appropriate changes to their lifestyle.“
We believe it is absolutely essential this work continues.
For this to happen, The Stroke Association needs your support. Please will you make a donation to help fund research?
Or you can set up a regular gift which can help to ensure that The Stroke Association continues to fund what is, ultimately life-saving, stroke research in the future.
