No Products in the Cart
Honey Gift SetsSHOP NOW
Honey Gift SetsSHOP NOW
It’s World Stroke Day, an important date in the public health calendar that aims to raise awareness of the causes and dangers of stroke. In honour of this international awareness event, we’re taking a closer look at strokes, how they manifest, and what support is available for those affected and their families and loved ones.
World Stroke Day is observed annually on the 29th of October, which this year falls on a Wednesday. The first event was organised by the World Stroke Organisation almost 20 years ago, in 2006. The World Stroke Organisation was formed through the merger of the International Stroke Society and the World Stroke Foundation in the same year, creating a unified voice in raising awareness for stroke research and care worldwide.
The theme for World Stroke Day 2025 is ‘Every Minute Counts’ and focuses on the importance of early diagnosis and timely treatment to prevent permanent damage. In the UK and around the world, World Stroke Day provides an opportunity for open discussions around the prevention, treatment, and long-term support associated with stroke.
A stroke, sometimes referred to as a “brain attack”, is a health event that occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. This leads to the damage and death of brain cells, potentially resulting in permanent damage. Current figures show that 100,000 people have strokes in the UK each year, and approximately 1.4 million people are living with stroke. Moreover, stroke is the leading cause of disability and the fourth leading cause of death in the UK.
Strokes can happen for a number of reasons. There are two main types of stroke, each characterised by different causes. These are:
In some cases, individuals may experience a transient ischaemic attack, also known as a mini-stroke. This is the same as an ischaemic stroke, but the symptoms only last for a short time, resolving as the blockage moves away from the brain.
Several factors can increase your risk of experiencing a stroke. This includes having certain medical conditions, including:
Other factors that can affect your risk of stroke include your age, family history, and lifestyle factors such as smoking or eating an unhealthy diet.
While some people may be more vulnerable, it is important to remember that strokes can happen to anyone at any time. When a stroke does occur, fast diagnosis and treatment can significantly reduce the risk of permanent damage and disability. Being able to spot the signs of stroke is, therefore, imperative.
Part of raising awareness of the risks and effects of stroke includes improving public knowledge of how to spot one, including through the FAST test:
The effects of a stroke can vary significantly depending on the circumstances of the attack. However, for many people, intensive rehabilitation is needed to regain physical and cognitive function. Depending on the severity of the stroke, patients may require physiotherapy and cognitive behavioural therapy, in addition to implementing exercises and activities to aid with memory, concentration, speech, and mood.
Recovery from a stroke can take anywhere from several weeks to a number of years. During this time, appropriate advice and support can be vital in easing the impact of the aftereffects of stroke. Several UK-based charities aim to provide education and support for victims of stroke and their carers, including the Stroke Association.
With so many people affected by stroke each year, improving public awareness and education is vital. Visit the Stroke Association’s website today to learn more.
