World stroke day 2020

Stroke is a condition where the blood supply to the brain is disrupted, resulting in oxygen starvation, brain damage and loss of function. It has already reached epidemic proportions. According to World Stroke Organisation, globally 1 in 4 adults over the age of 25 years will have a stroke in their lifetime.

Many stroke patients face significant challenges which include diminished physical function, impaired thinking, communication difficulties, loss of income and alteration of their role in society.

The causes of stroke are mostly controllable lifestyle factors, from smoking to diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and excessive stress. Preventive actions on stroke would also contribute to global goals to reduce cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes and other significant causes of death and suffering worldwide.

Researchers at The George Institute for Global Health are committed to driving innovation in cardiovascular diseases treatment, identifying ways to lower cardiovascular disease risk factors, and finding ways to improve health outcomes for people living with the effects of stroke all over the world. 

Professor Craig Anderson, Executive Director of The George Institute China and a world leading stroke researcher said, “Stroke is preventable. Addressing risk factors could not only reduce both stroke and COVID-19 mortality but also make a significant contribution to global health and development goals.”