Stroke burden in Ukraine: analysis of the official stroke statistics and overview of population-based epidemiological studies

Abstract

Analysis of the official statistical reports has shown an increase in stroke incidence rate in Ukrainian population, considerable diversities in stroke occurrence and dissimilar trends of incidence in different geographical areas for the last 19 years. High-quality, population-based stroke epidemiology studies are necessary to provide a reliable data on key indicators of stroke burden. The establishment of effective stroke observation system in Ukraine will allow prevention strategies planning, decreasing stroke incidence and improving stroke management.