Stroke: fact and fictionDespite being a priority in the National Service Framework for Older People issued three years ago, the severity of stroke remains widely underestimated. Hazel Heath reports.

Awareness in the UK of the gravity of stroke is alarmingly low among both the general public and some health professionals, according to a new survey. As part of Stroke Awareness Week last month, the Stroke Association surveyed 200 general practitioners, 75 accident and emergency doctors and more than 1,000 members of the public to ascertain levels of knowledge on stroke, treatment and prevention. The results demonstrate a lack of understanding of the severity of stroke, particularly among some health professionals, women and young people.