抄録
The stroke mortality rate has continued to decline steadily since 1950. This has been paralleled by a decline in the stroke incidence rate. However, in recent years, the stroke incidence rate has leveled and may be increasing. As a result of cerebrovascular and related research, improved methods of primary prevention are now available through control of identified risk factors. In addition, several variables are under investigation which may control the consequences of stroke and improve the quality of life of those afflicted. The direct and indirect economic costs of stroke are very high and there is a high probability they will increase. This is particularly true in populations in which incidence remains high but mortality decreases. (Hypertens Res 1994; 17 Suppl. I: S109-S113)
