site.btaBulgaria's First National Stroke Awareness Day Highlights Growing National Attention to Prevention and Post-Stroke Care

Bulgaria marked its first National Stroke Awareness Day on November 11, established at the initiative of the Association for Stroke and Aphasia (ASA-Bulgaria). The organization was founded by Dorina Dobreva, who also serves as National Coordinator for the European Stroke Action Plan, Board Member of the Stroke Alliance for Europe (SAFE), and Member of the Campaigns Committee of the World Stroke Organization (WSO), said ASA  Bulgaria.

It is the country’s first national patient organization for stroke survivors. The new awareness day is seen as an important step toward a more unified national policy for stroke prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation.

According to official data, over 50,000 people in Bulgaria suffer a stroke each year, one of the highest rates in Europe. About 10% die during the acute phase and another 22% within the first year. More than half of survivors live with long-term disabilities, data show.

The initiative has received international acknowledgment from leading stroke and aphasia organizations.

"This historic step demonstrates how patient organizations can contribute to meaningful change," said Jean-Marie Annoni, President of the International Association for Aphasia (AIA), as quoted by ASA-Bulgaria.

"Your initiative highlights the need for improved prevention, treatment, and post-stroke support," said Prof. Hariklia Proios, President of the Stroke Alliance for Europe (SAFE).

"This achievement reflects Bulgaria’s commitment to advancing stroke care and long-term outcomes," said Prof. Simona Sacco, President of the European Stroke Organisation (ESO).

"The establishment of a National Stroke Awareness Day supports global cooperation in the field," said Prof. Bo Norrving and Prof. Sheila Martins, Co-Chairs of the World Stroke Coalition.

"On behalf of the World Stroke Organization, I congratulate ASA-Bulgaria on this initiative," said Prof. Jeyaraj Pandian, President of the World Stroke Organization (WSO).

"Stroke has many aspects — medical, social, and human. For too long, it was seen as inevitable. Through the National Day, we create a space for dialogue uniting knowledge, experience, and will," said Dr. Georgi H. Georgiev, Vice-Chair of ASA-Bulgaria, as quoted by the organization.