Response to passive smoking campaign

Joe Korner, Director of Communications at The Stroke Association said:

"We are fully behind this new NHS campaign on the dangers of second hand smoke, it is a vital issue that deserves attention. Every five minutes someone in England and Wales has a stroke. Around a quarter of all strokes are linked to smoking and passive smokers are nearly twice as likely to have a stroke than those who don't live or work in a smoky atmosphere. Second hand smoke is truly an 'invisible killer' and the risk to people's lives is now clear."

"Smoking doubles your risk of a stroke because it causes narrowing and furring of the arteries and makes the blood more likely to clot. These clots along with the additional risk of high blood pressure increase the chances of a stroke. The best way to reduce this risk is to stop smoking as well as taking regular exercise and drinking sensibly as part of a healthy lifestyle."

ENDS
For further information please contact the media team at The Stroke Association on 020 7566 1500 or email the Press Office

Notes to editor

1. The Stroke Association is the only national 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 dysphasia support, family 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.

2. A stroke is a brain equivalent of a heart attack. A stroke can be diagnosed by using FAST - Facial weakness, Arm weakness, Speech Problems, Test all three. If these symptoms are present call an ambulance straight away.

3. The Stroke Helpline provides information on stroke to the general public and is open between 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday on 0845 3033 100.

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