The Stroke Association response to the ASCOT trial

The results of this study confirm The Stroke Association's view that good blood pressure control can reduce strokes. The use of a statin increases these benefits.

These newer strategies improve the outlook even further. Taken together, all these measures will have a major benefit in stroke reduction.

If anyone is currently taking medication for blood pressure and has any concerns, they should discuss these with their doctor.

ENDS

For further information please contact the Media Team at The Stroke Association on 020 7566 1500 or e-mail press@stroke.org.uk

Notes to editor

1. Each year over 150,000 people in the UK have a stroke. Of all people who suffer from a stroke, about a third are likely to die within the first 10 days, about a third are likely to make a recovery within one month and about a third are likely to be left disabled and needing rehabilitation. Stroke has a greater disability impact than any other medical condition. A quarter of a million people are living with long-term disability as a result of stroke in the UK.

2. The Stroke Association is the only national charity solely concerned with combatting stroke in people of all ages. It funds research into prevention, treatment and better methods of rehabilitation and helps stroke patients and their families directly through its community services. These include dysphasia support, family support, information services, welfare grants, publications and leaflets. We also campaign, educate and inform to increase knowledge of stroke at all levels of society and we act as a voice for everyone affected by stroke.

3. A stroke happens when the blood supply to 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 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.

4. The Stroke Association were awarded Medical Charity of the Year by the Medical Journalist's Association in July 2005.

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