Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland statement on Public Health Scotland’s Scottish Stroke Statistics 

Jane Claire Judson, Chief Executive of Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, said: “While it is reassuring to see a slight decrease in cerebrovascular disease rates, this report makes clear that there is still significant work to do. The Scottish Government must drive these figures down further, strengthen prevention measures, and improve outcomes for everyone who experiences a stroke 

“We have repeatedly warned the Scottish Government that an aging population means Scotland will face rising number of strokes in the years ahead. So, although there has been some progress, the reality is that our national health service risks being overwhelmed if action is not taken now. 

“Stroke is the leading cause of disability in Scotland and requires smarter and targeted funding from the Scottish Government. Last year, just 52.9 per cent of Scotland’s 11,341 stroke patients received the care defined by national standards which aim to ensure the best chance of survival and recovery. 

“We recognise the financial pressures facing the government, however repeated underinvestment in stroke care today will see the health service pay a higher cost in the future.  

“The statistics published today by Public Health Scotland lays bare the stark reality that deprivation is still a significant factor in cerebrovascular deaths. 

“Over a third (35%) of cerebrovascular deaths among people under 65 occurred in the most deprived areas, compared to 21% nationally. And in 2024, the death rate from cerebrovascular disease in the most deprived communities was 52% higher than in the least deprived. These are staggering and alarming inequalities that demand urgent action from the Scottish Government. 

“We operate Health Defence Hubs in some of the most deprived areas of Scotland, giving people access to health checks, health information, and community based physical activity services to help people stay active.  

“We feel the Scottish Government’s Population Health framework, which aims to improve the health of people in this country, complements our health defence work in the most deprived areas.  

“Scotland can and must do better for people affected by stroke. There is urgent work required now, alongside sustained long-term action, to prevent ill health and ensure everyone receives the standard of care they deserve. CHSS, as always, is open to partner with the Scottish Government and relevant agencies to drive meaningful improvements, tackle entrenched health inequalities, and build a health system better equipped to prevent disease and support people to live longer, healthier lives.” 

For more information on what we want to see from the next Scottish Government, read our 2026 manifesto, Our Voices. Our Votes. Our Asks. 

If you’re living with the effects of a chest, heart or stroke condition or Long Covid and are looking for advice and information, please contact Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland’s Advice Line on 0808 801 0899. You can also text ADVICE to 66777 or email adviceline@chss.org.uk.