Modelling Stroke - A multi-state life table model

Modelling Stroke - A multi-state life table model
Public Health Intelligence Occasional Bulletin No 12

Publication date: May 2002

Stroke is a major public health issue in New Zealand, as in other developed countries. It is the third leading cause of death (after cancer and heart disease) and a major contributor to disability, especially among the older population. Furthermore, the burden of stroke falls disproportionately on Maori and Pacific ethnic groups, and on socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals, families and communities. Most importantly, the causes of stroke are well understood and a significant proportion of strokes are preventable.

These facts led to the inclusion of stroke, along with heart disease, as a priority objective in the New Zealand Health Strategy, released by the Minister of Health on 14 December 2000. Since then the Ministry of Health has been developing a Cardiovascular Disease Action Plan, which will focus on both ischaemic heart disease and stroke.

The model reported here is intended primarily to assist in the development of this strategy and its associated ‘toolkits’, which will provide guidance for District Health Boards regarding the funding and provision of stroke prevention, treatment and rehabilitation services. The model may also prove of interest and assistance to health professionals and organisations outside the Ministry of Health and the District Health Boards.

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