Preventative measures against stroke can reduce stroke incidence

Lancet 2004; 363: 1925-33

Part funded by The Stroke Association, researchers have demonstrated a 40 per cent reduction in stroke incidence in Oxfordshire over the past 20 years. Researchers suggested that the fall in stroke incidence is closely linked to the increased use of preventative treatments for stroke, and better control of risk factors in general.

Professor Rothwell and others at the University of Oxford have been comparing data on reported stroke incidence in Oxfordshire in the past two years with data recorded 20 years ago. In the past 20 years, the number of people aged 75 years and older in Oxfordshire had risen by 33 per cent. Since older people are more likely to have a stroke, it was expected that the study would show a rise in stroke compared to 20 years ago. However, the study found that the overall incidence of first stroke had fallen, and that major stroke incidence had dropped by 40 per cent.

The researchers compared the profiles of stroke patients within the last two years with stroke patients 20 years ago. They found that most patients with stroke in the last two years were taking preventative medicines that help control the risk factors for stroke. These included drugs that thin the blood, blood pressure and cholesterol lowering drugs. They were also less likely to be regular smokers. This may help to explain the overall reduction in stroke that was seen in the region.

The researchers suggested that the fall in stroke incidence is closely linked to the increased use of preventative treatments for stroke, and better control of risk factors in general.

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For further information, see Autumn 2004 Stroke News (67 kb) [pdf] article.

Press Release 17.06.04 - New study shows that preventative measures against stroke can reduce incidence