Impact of Stroke

Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Globally, 1 in 4 adults over the age of 25 will have a stroke in their lifetime.

World Stroke Campaign / About Stroke / Impact of Stroke

Over 12 million people worldwide will have their first stroke this year and 6.5 million will die as a result. Over 100 million people in the world have experienced stroke. The incidence of stroke increases significantly with age, however over 60% of strokes happen to people under the age of 70 and 16% happen to those under the age of 50.

Over half of people who have a stroke will die as a result. For survivors the impact can be devastating affecting physical mobility, eating, speech and language, emotions and thought processes. These complex needs can result in care and financial challenges for the individual and for their caregivers, as well as placing significant demands on health and social welfare provision.

Rates of stroke are growing fastest in low and middle income countries, often where healthcare providers find it more challenging to provide the care that is needed for effective prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of stroke.

The global economic impact of stroke currently represents 0.66% of Global GDP and the total cost of stroke is estimated to tip US$1 trillion by 2030.