Response to carotid endarterectomy audit

Joe Korner, Director of Communications at The Stroke Association said: “This audit shows that there is still a long way to go to make sure people get urgent preventative treatment that could prevent a catastrophic stroke.

As people become more aware of stroke symptoms through the FAST advertising, it is vital that the NHS treats all types of stroke, including those with short-lived symptoms known as transient ischaemic attack or TIA, as emergencies when people call 999. Thousands of lives are at stake. 

Your risk of stroke is highest in the first 48 hours after a TIA and prompt surgery on the carotid artery could save thousands of people from going on to have a severe stroke. Too few people are getting this surgery, and many people are having it too late to make any difference.

The Stroke Association wants to see substantial progress in the coming months to remove all of the delays in treating TIA. What is needed has already been outlined in the National Stroke Strategy and NICE Guidelines. We urge all parts of the health service to make the changes needed to prevent thousands of people from having a stroke in the coming year.”

ENDS

For further information please contact the Media Team at The Stroke Association on 020 7566 1500. 

Notes to editor

About stroke and The Stroke Association:

The Stroke Association is the only UK-wide charity solely concerned with combating stroke in people of all ages. The charity funds research into prevention, treatment, better methods of rehabilitation and helps stroke patients and their families directly through its community services which include communication support, family and carer support, information services, welfare grants, publications and leaflets. The Stroke Association also campaigns, educates and informs to increase knowledge of stroke at all levels of society acting as a voice for everyone affected by stroke.

A stroke is a brain attack which causes brain damage. A stroke can be diagnosed by using FAST – Facial weakness, Arm weakness, Speech problems, Time to call 999. If any of these symptoms is present call an ambulance straight away.

A stroke happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is disrupted. Most strokes occur when a blood clot blocks the flow of blood to the brain. Some strokes are caused by bleeding in or around the brain from a burst blood vessel. When the blood supply is disrupted, parts of the brain become damaged or destroyed. Some strokes are fatal whist others can cause permanent or temporary disabilities such as paralysis to one side of the body and loss of the ability to speak, read or write. Recovery may be slow and can vary from person to person.

Strokes can be prevented through lifestyle factors such as a healthy diet - particularly reducing salt intake, drinking alcohol in moderation, not smoking and taking regular exercise.

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