Stroke Action Plan for Europe featured in The Lancet Neurology

The Stroke Action Plan for Europe (SAP-E) has been featured in The Lancet Neurology, underscoring the growing international recognition of the SAP-E and the urgency of addressing stroke as a major public health challenge.

The article highlights that stroke is still one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability worldwide. Stroke Services Tracker data from 2023 shows it still has a huge impact on people’s health and quality of life. While the chances of dying from a stroke or living with severe disability after one are improving, the total number of people having strokes is increasing as populations grow and people live longer.

Across Europe, there are still big differences in the care people receive after a stroke. Access to specialist stroke units, emergency treatments and rehabilitation services varies widely between countries. These gaps in care mean that outcomes can differ significantly between countries and regions, including a person’s chances of survival and recovery. The recently updated SAP-E sets out a comprehensive roadmap to address these challenges, with ambitious targets for 2030. These include reducing stroke incidence, ensuring that patients receive care in dedicated stroke units as well as strengthening prevention, treatment and long-term support.

The Lancet Neurology feature highlights both progress and gaps, noting improvements in national stroke planning alongside ongoing challenges in implementation and resourcing. It calls for stronger monitoring, accountability and investment to ensure that evidence-based strategies are translated into practice.

The inclusion of SAP-E in The Lancet Neurology reflects the increasing global attention on stroke research, prevention and care, and reinforces the importance of coordinated action to reduce the burden of stroke across Europe and beyond.

 

Read the Editorial here.