79th WHA Individual Statements
The World Stroke Organization welcomes Member States’ commitment to driving equitable access to rehabilitation and applauds the 80 countries that have developed stroke rehabilitation strategies since 2017.
94 million people are living with the impact of stroke. As the third leading cause of disability, stroke is currently responsible for 145 million disability-adjusted life years - a burden that is projected to rise by 31% by 2050.
Access to rehabilitation supports functional independence, improves mental health and enables economic participation for stroke survivors and caregivers. Yet, 20–40% of healthcare settings globally are yet to implement basic stroke rehabilitation services, with access particularly limited in LMICs. We urge Member States to address patient needs and equity gaps, through the financing of national rehabilitation strategies, aligned to the priorities set out in national stroke action plans