More Focus On Strokes Needed In Chesterfield

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 26th Jul 2007

Speaking on the Stroke Association's call for Chesterfield to get involved in a major Government consultation, Liberal Democrat MP for Chesterfield Paul Holmes, said:

"Over a third of people who have a stroke are still not treated on a stroke unit which can save lives and reduce disability.

Stroke is the third biggest killer in the UK and the biggest cause of serious adult disability. On average around 60,000 people each year are likely to die from stroke and at least 300,000 people are living with moderate to severe disabilities as a result of stroke in England.

There are many people in Chesterfield who have been affected by stroke. It is a devastating condition that can strike at any time and we urgently need to see improvements in stroke services and increased public awareness.

Although the Government is developing a new National Strategy for Stroke treatment, we must ensure that local people are apart of the consultation process."