According to a new survey commissioned by the Stroke Association, almost three quarters of UK Asians are unaware that their ethnicity puts them at a higher risk of stroke and nearly a third don’t know that strokes are preventable.
In the UK, stroke is the fourth biggest killer and the leading cause of disability. Studies suggest South Asian people tend to have strokes 10 years earlier and are almost twice as likely to develop diabetes, which is a key risk factor for stroke.
The Stroke Association is highlighting these statistics to support its Know Your Blood Pressure campaign, urging people of South Asian heritage to get their blood pressure checked so that they can reduce their risk of stroke. Having high blood pressure can triple your risk of stroke and contributes to half of all strokes in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Despite this it is estimated that there are more than 5.5 million people in England alone who have undiagnosed high blood pressure.
Coronation Street actress Shobna Gulati, is backing the campaign, after her family was affected by stroke.
Shobna said, “I know how devastating stroke is. I have lost friends and family. I am urging everyone to get their blood pressure checked regularly. Do it for yourself, do it for your family. Many strokes are absolutely preventable, the test is so quick, easy and painless, and it could mean the difference between life and death”.
Juliet Bouverie, Chief Executive of the Stroke Association said, “A stroke can happen to anyone, but if you are of South Asian heritage you are particularly vulnerable to having a stroke and having it at a younger age. One of the easiest things you can do to protect yourself is regularly monitor your blood pressure. High blood pressure rarely shows any symptoms, so most people are not aware they have it. But, if your blood pressure is too high it puts a strain on your arteries and heart. Getting treatment will not only significantly reduce your risk of having a stroke, but also a heart attack.”
Anil Ranchod, Deputy Director Public Relations & Communications, Stroke Association, told Asian Voice, “Stroke is one of those conditions that we’d all rather not think about, but as Asians we’re at higher risk of having a stroke at a younger age and need to think about it. What shocked me about the survey was that so many people don’t know that stroke can be prevented. Simply monitoring and managing your blood pressure can significantly reduce your risk. You can get free blood pressure tests at your GP or local Well Pharmacy.”
