"This research is of the utmost importance. It clearly shows that thousands of people could be saved from life shattering strokes every year, simply by making sure that everyone who has a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) or minor stroke gets currently available treatment quickly. It is not about a brand new technology, or a costly intervention. It is about organising our services so that a TIA or minor stroke is always treated, and treated urgently.
"Too often people ignore stroke symptoms if they don't last very long. Yet, a TIA is one of the only warning signs that a major stroke may be on its way and it is vital that anyone with a TIA is referred urgently to specialist services and for those at highest risk to be seen within 24 hours.
"Making desperately needed organisational changes will save the NHS money over the long term as more strokes will be prevented. As part of the Comprehensive Spending review we called upon the Treasury to invest in the reorganisation of stroke and TIA services to ensure that everyone receives the treatment that they need to save lives. It is not often that medical research indicates so strongly the efficiency of treatment supporting the need for urgent and immediate investment."
1. The Stroke Association is the only UK 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 communications support, family and carer support, 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 attack which causes brain damage. A stroke can be diagnosed by using FAST - Facial weakness, Arm weakness, Speech problems, Test all three. If any of these symptoms are present call an ambulance straight away.