A stroke happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. Every year over 150,000 people have a stroke and it is the third largest cause of death in the UK, after heart disease and cancer. The brain damage caused by strokes means that they are the largest cause of adult disability in the UK.
Key facts
African people are twice as likely as Europeans to have a stroke
African people are more likely to have their first stroke at a younger age
Stroke is more likely amongst; smokers, people with high blood pressure or cholesterol and those who are overweight
Sickle cell disease can also cause stroke
Our view
Currently there is not enough research being done into the impact of Stroke on the African community or the extent to which Africans know about stroke and its risk factors. The AHPN believes more should be done to educate the African community in the UK on their risks and lifestyle choices which will help to lower the chances of having a stroke. The AHPN also believes that more should be done to ensure that Africans access proper rehabilitation treatment after having a stroke to improve their chances of recovering fully.