Ischemic stroke – the challenge continues

Furthermore, epidemiological data regarding stroke burden in Central and Eastern European countries are not acceptable – the incidence and prevalence of stroke in Central and Eastern European countries are still higher than in Western European countries (3-5). Despite improvement in technical support, some countries in the region are struggling with basic organization problems such as forming stroke units (3), which have been clearly shown to save lives in both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke (6,7). According to the European Stroke Organization (ESO) guidelines, we may divide stroke units in primary stroke units and comprehensive stroke units (8). In parallel with the certification of stroke units by ESO or other authorities, countries should encourage the founding of stroke units based on the principles. But first of all, it is necessary to have dedicated and trained stroke physicians.