North Wales MS Supports Urgent Call to Prioritize Stroke Care

A Member of the Senedd (MS) from North Wales has pledged his commitment to prioritizing stroke care within the region’s health agenda. During a recent meeting with representatives from the Stroke Association at the Senedd in Cardiff, Sam Rowlands, a Welsh Conservative MS, emphasized the need for urgent action to address this critical health issue.

Every year, more than 7,000 individuals across Wales experience a stroke, making it the fourth leading cause of death in the country. The Stroke Association, the only charity in the UK dedicated to providing lifelong support to stroke survivors and their families, is advocating for the Welsh Government to prioritize stroke prevention and care.

“I am always pleased to support the work of the Stroke Association and help to raise awareness of this preventable disease,” Sam Rowlands stated. “I fully support their calls to make stroke a health priority as it is something we should all be aware of and know more about. It is important to note that with the right investment, stroke is preventable, treatable, and recoverable.”

The financial impact of strokes is significant. Annually, they cost NHS Wales approximately £220 million, while the broader Welsh economy bears a burden of around £1.63 billion. Without intervention and improved services, this cost could escalate to an estimated £2.8 billion by 2035.

According to the Stroke Association, there are currently more than 70,000 stroke survivors living in Wales, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced support and preventative measures. Rowlands’ commitment reflects a growing recognition of the necessity to address stroke not just as a health issue but as a matter of economic importance for the region.

The call for action resonates not only with health professionals but also with families affected by strokes. The advocacy for prioritizing stroke care is crucial for ensuring that effective resources and strategies are developed to combat this leading health crisis in Wales. As discussions continue, stakeholders hope to see a swift response from the government to implement necessary changes in public health policy.