Improving Stroke Outcomes: A Roadmap of Care

The global burden of stroke is substantial with world-wide estimates suggesting the incidence of first ever strokes increased from 16 million in 2005 to 23 million in 2013 [1]. It is expected that more than 25% (7.8 million) of those suffering a stroke in 2030 will also experience a stroke-related death [1]. Incidence and outcomes data suggest there are significant discrepancies in incidence and mortality rates among countries and regions [2]. In particular, rates vary greatly between low and high income countries [2]. Additionally, a recent finding suggests there are “stroke belt” regions or geographic variations in the burden of stroke around the globe [3]. Compounding the variability in worldwide stroke rates is a similar high variability in access to quality early stroke medical care followed by organized rehabilitation for stroke survivors with disability [4].