· Stroke is the third leading cause of death, after diseases of the heart and cancer.

· In 1999, stroke accounted for more than 167,000 deaths.

· Each year, about 600,000 people experience a stroke. About 4.6 million stroke survivors and their families live with the disabling effects of stroke.

· The estimated cost (direct and indirect) in the United States in 2002 is $49.4 billion.

· The major risk factors for stroke are uncontrolled high blood pressure and tobacco use.

· In 1999, rates of death from stroke were 40 percent higher among blacks than whites.

· In 2002, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provided funding to 29 states and District of Columbia to support their cardiovascular health programs. Eight states are funded for basic implementation programs while 22 are funded for capacity building.

· Ten states have passed legislation to create a task force to educate the public and health care workforce about stroke prevention, detection and treatment.