Stroke is one of Australia's top five biggest killers, claiming 9,147 lives in 2024 according to the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Causes of Death report released on 14 November.
Cerebrovascular diseases, of which stroke is the most common form, ranks as the fourth leading cause of death in Australia in 2024, highlighting the ongoing devastating impact of stroke on Australians of all ages, as well as their families and communities.
Stroke is a medical emergency which occurs when blood supply to the brain is interrupted, causing potential brain damage, loss of function, disability or death. On average, someone experiences a stroke every 11 minutes in Australia.
Dr Lisa Murphy, CEO of Stroke Foundation, said the latest ABS Report is a sobering reminder why stroke must remain a national health priority in Australia, highlights the need for greater investment to improve stroke awareness, prevention, treatment and recovery supports
"Stroke kills more men than prostate cancer and more women than breast cancer every year. Behind every statistic is a family forever changed by stroke - a life lost too soon or a loved one facing a long and challenging recovery," Dr Murphy said.
The encouraging news is that more than 80 per cent of strokes are preventable. By managing key risk factors such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, cholesterol, irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation), diabetes, and making healthy lifestyle choices, Australians can significantly reduce their risk of stroke.
"Every second counts when someone is having a stroke. We urge all Australians to have regular health checks, learn the F.A.S.T. signs and know to call triple zero (000) immediately if they suspect a stroke. The faster someone receives treatment, the better their chances of survival and recovery", Dr Murphy added.
Stroke Foundation is calling on all Australians to be 'stroke smart' by:
- Learning the F.A.S.T. signs of stroke
- Getting regular health checks with their GP
- Knowing and managing high blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes
- Staying physically active
- Maintaining a healthy diet and weight
- Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption
