A NEW stroke research programme has been launched in Bromsgrove.
The STARR (stroke, technology and risk reduction) is aimed at helping stroke survivors manage their risk factors for recurrent stroke – a stroke that happens after someone has their first stroke.
The scheme is led by a team which includes stroke survivors, commercial healthcare companies, hospitals and technology research groups from seven countries.
The first session in Bromsgrove took place at the town’s Life After Stroke Centre on September 5 and was run by the Stroke Association’s EU Research Manager, Dr Gary Randall, along with guest researcher, Professor Charlotte Magnusson from Lund University, Sweden.
Shamim Quadir, The Stroke Association’s research communications manager, said: “The number of people who survive a first stroke is increasing, which is excellent news.
“However, stroke survivors are at high risk of experiencing the condition again, and the impact of a recurrent stroke can be devastating.
“It’s thought that the vast majority of recurrent strokes could be prevented.
“This latest workshop with the local community in Bromsgrove is a significant part of this research, and we hope it will help prevent future generations experience a recurrent stroke.”
Steve Wright, 60, from Bromsgrove, was one of the people who took part in the first STARR session at the centre.
He had a stroke in August 2008, which affected his speech and the movement in his right hand side.
He said: “The workshop was really interesting and I’d definitely take part again.
“As well as talking about the risk factors for stroke, like exercise, diet and high blood pressure, it was really useful to share ideas and tips with other stroke survivors about techniques we’ve used during our recovery.
“I’ve found ways to help build my strength and mobility by doing everyday tasks, such as washing up and getting dressed, and it was great to share this advice with the group.”
Visit http://strk.org.uk/1XQJIrC for more on STARR or, for more on Stroke, call the charity’s helpline on 0303 303 3100.
