At our lunchtime meeting on 19th June the speaker was Emma Strong, who described the work of The Stroke Association, both in prevention and in support of patients and their relatives afterwards.

Emma described the risk factors for stroke, including smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and inactivity.She discussed the preventive measures which can help. The incidence of stroke has diminished over the past 20-30 years, probably because of lifestyle factors such as reduced smoking. More widespread monitoring and effective treatment of blood pressure and raised cholesterol is now practised.

The strong message she conveyed was not to hesitate to call for medical help if you have symptoms suggesting a stroke. These are varied but commonly include weakness or numbness in one or more limbs, a drooping mouth on one side, sudden partial or complete loss of vision, and loss of balance. Effective “clot busting” treatment is only effective if given within a few hours, and is only generally available in hospitals, so do not “wait and see”.

Emma gave a very informative and useful presentation followed by a busy Q and A session! Norman Solomon gave a well deserved vote of thanks.