The world's brightest minds in stroke prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, research and lived experience will converge at the Adelaide Convention Centre next week for a major international conference.
The Asia Pacific Stroke Conference, jointly hosted by the Australian and New Zealand Stroke Organisation and the Asia Pacific Stroke Organisation, will bring together leading experts and consumers in stroke to showcase research and share ideas that could improve the care of stroke patients worldwide.
Australian and New Zealand Stroke Organisation (ANZSO) President Professor Timothy Kleinig, who is also Conference Chair, said the event provides an exciting opportunity to showcase the latest innovations being made in stroke treatment and care, both in Australia and across the world.
"The theme of this year's conference is 'Transcending Borders' which aims to bridge borders between countries, research and implementation, pre-hospital care, medical neuro-interventional and surgical specialties, and between health professionals and those who use the services," Professor Kleinig said.
"We're thrilled to have the best stroke minds in Adelaide from across the world who are driving advancements in the treatment of stroke and challenging the norms to move forward with new and innovative treatments."
Some of the research being showcased at the event, which is expected to attract over 600 attendees, includes: advances in brain imaging in acute stroke, using virtual reality and video gaming as possible aids to stroke treatment, the benefits of physical activity and sleep on post-stroke fatigue, advancements in mental health supports for survivors of stroke and families, and new pathways to streamline hospital to rehabilitation care transition.
More than 40,000 Australians experience a stroke event every year, and nearly half a million survivors of stroke live in the community. Globally, around one in four people will experience a stroke in their lifetime. New data will be released at the conference on the cost of stroke to the Australian community and economy by Stroke Foundation.
Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Dr Lisa Murphy, said the conference provides an exciting opportunity for the stroke sector to share ideas and research that will change the game when it comes to stroke prevention, treatment and enhanced recovery.
"This is a huge opportunity to have Australasian leading stroke experts and innovators come together in Adelaide, share ideas, showcase the latest advancements in stroke care, and highlights the real-world impacts for survivors of stroke, their carers, families and the broader society," Dr Murphy said.
"We hope exciting new progress comes out of the conference and has a direct impact on the Australian health system."
