The Biology and Business of Stroke

Some of the country’s foremost experts on stroke are gathering at the University of Reading on Wednesday 14 December to discuss the latest research into stroke, which is the third biggest killer and the leading cause of disability in the UK.

A wide range of research areas will be discussed at the workshop, called ‘The Biology and Business of Stroke’. Speakers will consider the latest approaches to the diagnosis and management of stroke, such as the role of diet and medical drugs.

They will also look at how stroke is treated and how that might change in the future with the development of new technologies and stem cell research.

The workshop has been organised by the Thames Valley Life Sciences Network (1) and SPARC – the Strategic Promotion of Ageing Research Capacity (2). SPARC is a pioneering scheme which encourages young researchers to take an interest in the need of older people and an ageing population. It is led by Professor Peter Lansley, of the School of Construction Management and Engineering at the University of Reading, and Dr Richard Faragaher, from the School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences at the University of Brighton.

Professor Lansley said: “With some 250,000 people living with long-term disability as a result of stroke in the UK, it is a vital research area. Various departments at the University of Reading have worked on stroke-related research, including academics in Cybernetics, Pharmacy, Psychology and Health & Social Care. This workshop will give a good overview of the recent advances in approaches to improving the care of those who have suffered a stroke.”

As well as academics, the workshop will be attended by business and public sector policy makers, health and social care practitioners and representatives from national charities such as the Stroke Association and Help the Aged. There will also be people coming who have themselves had a stroke.

Professor Lansley added: “There is an excellent cross-section of people attending this event so it’s an ideal opportunity for dialogue and for all of us to learn more about stroke – and how it can be prevented and treated.”