Plan to reduce stroke risk launched in Wales
26 July 2010
An action plan has been launched in Wales to reduce the risk of people having a stroke, Health Minister Edwina Hart has announced.
The 40-point plan, developed by Public Health Wales, has been welcomed by The Stroke Association. Stroke is the third biggest killer and the leading cause of adult disability in Wales.
The plan, backed by the Assembly, aims to promote healthy lifestyles. It will also involve a campaign to raise awareness of the risk factors of stroke, such as hypertension and atrial fibrillation. This campaign will encourage people to have their blood pressure and their pulse checked, improve diagnosis and make sure people at greater risk of stroke are referred to treatment.
Ana Palazon, The Stroke Association's Director in Wales, said: “We are supportive of this action plan, and are pleased that steps are being taken to promote awareness and further educate the public about the risk factors. The Stroke Association hopes to contribute to the attainment of this plan through our Know Your Blood Pressure campaign. This raises awareness of the link between high blood pressure and stroke, and involves running blood pressure testing events across Wales.”
Source: The Stroke Association
