Worldwide under-funding of stroke research

The clinical and financial burdens of stroke are considerable. Stroke is the leading cause of death and disability in the developed world and incidence is rapidly increasing in the developing world. However, investment in research to combat stroke has been remarkably poor. Studies from the United Kingdom, Europe and the United States have shown a highly consistent picture, with considerably lower levels of funding for stroke research compared with cancer and heart disease. Without better funding for stroke research, it is unlikely that progress in prevention and treatment will offset the projected increases in the burden of stroke. Stroke physicians and public interest groups need to be active advocates in securing increased funding for stroke research.