The Stroke Association response to government funding into stroke research

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

"For too long stroke research as been underfunded compared to other disease areas. As the biggest charitable funder of stroke research in the UK The Stroke Association is extremely keen to see more invested in this area.

"We believe that the funding announced today provides a welcome boost to stroke research. We warmly welcome this initiative from the Department of Health and hope that it will go some way to help the estimated 150,000 people that have a stroke in the UK each year.

"Stroke is a medical emergency and it is vital that it is treated as such. That's why we have been campaigning on this issue over recent months. We are delighted that research into this area is being funded. Getting the emergency response to stroke right will improve outcomes for thousands of people who have a stroke every year.

"40% of strokes could be prevented so it is also very significant that research into stroke prevention is included as is work on long term care. Long term care plays an essential part in a stroke survivor's recovery and in providing support to the third of stroke survivors who are left permanently disabled. "
ENDS

For further information please contact the Media Team at The Stroke Association on 020 7566 1500 or email the Press Office

For further information visit the Department of Health website

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 a communication support service, family and carer support service, 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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