News

12th October 2004

John Bowis launches major new European patient force to tackle stroke

Thousands of lives could be saved by European Governments directly intervening in stroke prevention according to a new patient group launched by John Bowis. "SAFE" (The Stroke Alliance For Europe) combines the resources of patient organisations across Europe to champion stroke prevention, save lives and suffering and save the European economy millions of Euros.

Stroke is the third leading cause of death in Europe, behind heart diseases and cancer, and the most common cause of adult physical disability, with an estimated 1.4 million stroke deaths each year. In addition, stroke imposes a significant burden on society and on healthcare budgets, accounting for 3-4% of the total healthcare costs in Western European countries. Yet people can reduce their risk of having a stroke by having regular blood pressure checks, receiving appropriate treatment for high blood pressure and implementing certain life style changes. SAFE hope to drive these messages to the heart of the European health policy agenda.

John Bowis, Conservative MEP for London and EPP-ED Co-ordinator on the European Parliament Environment and Health Committee, welcomed the SAFE launch: "SAFE is an exciting initiative as it is the first time patient groups have come together across Europe in this way to join forces in the battle against stroke.

"The UK has the worst record in Western Europe for fatal and non-fatal strokes - twice that of Germany and nearly four times that of Spain. It is urgent that we take steps to cut the health and financial damage done to individuals by investing in prevention measures. Screening and education are the keys. Most strokes are preventatble or at least their damage can be limited."

SAFE is made up of 20 patient organisations from across Europe. Link to SAFE website.