The UK is set to be hit by a stroke epidemic due to the ageing population, a new study has claimed.
The number of cases is predicted to rise by almost 50 per cent from 43,000 strokes per year to about 62,000.
Britain’s hospitals and rehabilitation services are expected to be put under major pressure, according to the Stroke Alliance for Europe, who published the figures.
The study suggests that the number of stroke survivors needing care will rise 32 per cent to almost 800,000.
Juliet Bouverie, chief executive of the Stroke Association, told the Times: "If these shocking figures are borne out, health services will face a formidable challenge in tackling a stroke epidemic."
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She added: "Without reorganisation, patients are less likely to receive the treatment and care that will save their lives and reduce disability."
The number of strokes across the continent will only rise by 34 per cent, according to the study.
While the risk of stroke at any age is decreasing, it is the ageing population which increases the overall numbers.