The latest Scottish Stroke Statistics, published by Public Health Scotland, highlights several critical trends that are cause for concern, particularly as Scotland’s population continues to age. According to Jane Claire Judson, Chief Executive of Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland (CHSS), while there has been a slight decrease in the number of deaths from cerebrovascular diseases, the increase in stroke cases is expected to rise significantly in the coming years.
Forecasted Rise in Strokes
The report from Public Health Scotland outlines a forecasted 35% increase in cerebrovascular disease cases from 2019 to 2044, equating to an additional 37,000 people. This surge is largely attributed to Scotland’s ageing population. With stroke already being the leading cause of disability in the country, the need for improvements in stroke care has never been more urgent.
The quality of care that stroke patients receive is critical to both their survival and recovery. Judson warns that the challenges faced by stroke care in Scotland today will likely worsen if immediate action is not taken.
Stroke Care: A National Priority
In a call to action, CHSS is urging the Scottish government to prioritize stroke care funding in the upcoming budget, recommending an increase that at least matches inflation. The organization stresses that this is the bare minimum required to ensure the country’s stroke care system does not fall further behind.
Judson pointed to the worrying statistic that in 2023, only 51.3% of the 10,803 Scots who had a stroke received the care defined by national standards. These standards are crucial for giving stroke patients the best chance at survival and a successful recovery.
Disparities in Stroke Rates
The report also highlights a concerning demographic divide when it comes to stroke rates. People from deprived areas are 62% more likely to have a stroke than those from less deprived regions of Scotland. This disparity underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions and improved access to healthcare in these communities.
In response, CHSS has launched Health Hubs in some of the most affected areas. These hubs provide local access to health checks, information about the prevention and management of chest, heart, and stroke conditions, as well as exercise classes and support for those affected by Long Covid. These hubs serve as a valuable resource for people in deprived communities, helping them manage their health and reduce their risk of strokes.
A Call for Action
With the future of stroke care in Scotland at a crossroads, Judson is calling for immediate action to ensure that funding is directed toward addressing the challenges identified in the report. Without increased investment, Scotland risks falling further behind in its efforts to combat the rise in stroke cases, especially as its population continues to age.
The time for action is now. Strengthening stroke care in Scotland is not just a medical priority—it’s a moral imperative to ensure that all Scots, regardless of their background or location, have access to the care and support they need.
