Stroke Foundation congratulates the Honourable Harriet Shing MP, on her recently-appointed role as Victoria's Health Minister.
Stroke Foundation's Chief Executive Officer, Dr Lisa Murphy, says she looks forward to working with Minister Shing to tackle the impact of stroke on Victorians of all ages.
" I am excited to work closely with Minister Shing and welcome her support for Stroke Foundation's mission to prevent stroke, save lives and enhance recovery."
Every 11 minutes someone in Australia experiences a stroke. Stroke is the third leading cause of death in Victoria, claiming the lives of nearly 2,200 Victorians in 2024. It is also one of the leading causes of disability with huge impacts on their families, communities and the health system.
80 per cent of strokes are preventable, yet one in three Victorians still cannot recognise any of the common signs of stroke or know the common risk factors. Although Victoria is leading the way with two Mobile Stroke Units on the road in Melbourne and the improvements to acute stroke treatments achieved through Safer Care Victoria' "Enhancing Stroke Care Improvement Project" (100,000 Lives Program), unless the signs of stroke are recognised and acted on early by members of the public, the lifesaving 000 phone call may never be made, or made too late to prevent death or significant life-long disability.
For those who do survive a stroke, hospital discharge information is an essential step in understanding what has happened, what recovery may look like, and most importantly, a proactive way to help prevent secondary strokes and hospital readmissions.
Unfortunately, 1 in 4 Victorian survivors of stroke do not receive this vital and life-saving information at present.
"Strategic investment in prevention, awareness, improved stroke care and rehabilitation has the power to save lives, reduce long-term disability, and significantly ease pressure on hospitals and rehabilitation services, and keep more people in employment, having good social connections, and living independently," Dr Murphy said.
This year also marks the 30th anniversary of Stroke Foundation, a milestone that reflects three decades of leadership and impact the Foundation has made in stroke prevention, treatment, recovery, and care for Australians affected by stroke.
"With the right support from government, the Foundation can build on this legacy and accelerate efforts to prevent stroke and improve outcomes for thousands more Victorians," Dr Murphy added.
