For the first time the full impact of stroke in Australia has been revealed, and it seems that no postcode goes untouched by this devastating condition. The Stroke Foundation, with the help of Deloitte Access Economics, has now mapped the impact of stroke in every federal electorate in Australia. Hotspots have been identified, as well as where the greatest numbers of Australians live with stroke risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat) and physical inactivity.
Here are some of the frightening facts:
- Every 10 minutes an Australian will have a stroke
- 51,000 Australians will have a stroke this year
- Two out of three stroke survivors require daily care.
So why should you care?
Stroke is Australia’s second biggest killer and leaves tens of thousands of Australians disabled.
You can find out how it impacts your community by looking up your postcode at the Stroke Foundation website.
I’ve yet to see an analysis that compares stroke rates in different regions AND takes into account age demographics of that region as compared to National average. That would provide a more valid comparisons.
Why not do the research cemetery by cemetery
Oh my god, so no post code is safe. What do you do? Head for the hills. One could have a stroke just trying to get out of town. “Lies, damn lies and statistics” You just gotta love em.