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Saudi Stroke Association: Prospects and Achievements

Stroke in Saudi Arabia remains a major health burden with a prevalence of 186/100 000 and incidence of 30/100 000 based on Saudi stroke data bank. The paucity of well-established epidemiological studies until the mid 1980s delayed expected awareness and management plans in this field. In 2001, a group of nationwide Saudi neurologists established the Saudi Advisory Group Against Stroke (SAGAS); the main objectives are to diminish stroke burden and educate the medical community and general public about this leading health problem. Several educational and scientific meetings have been held almost biannually in various regions of the Kingdom. This group did the groundwork toward establishment of the Saudi Stroke Association. The association was approved by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties, after general election and nomination based on specialty qualification and participation in the field. In February 2007, the Saudi Stroke Association board members were elected and an intense agenda was set with recognition by a task force from the World Stroke Organization. The objectives were clearly stated in its mission, to reduce stroke disability and death. The vision was to become the leading authority in Saudi Arabia and the Arab world, for the prevention and treatment of stroke and to actively participate with activities of the World Stroke Organization. Goals were to obtain accurate and ongoing Saudi stroke statistics through epidemiological studies; to develop local guidelines on the proper management of stroke; to identify and certify stroke centers throughout the Kingdom; to develop a Kingdom-wide telemedicine stroke service; to help develop and certify stroke fellowship training progress; to conduct medical studies and research; and to educate professionals and the public. Board members of the association consist of 10 members headed by Dr Waleed Khoja; there are 200 association working members. The 16th annual Saudi Neuroscience meeting, January 21– 24, 2008, was the first Saudi Stroke Association annual meeting with a full day of scientific presentation. This was attended by Professor Geoffrey Donnan, President of the World Stroke Organization. It tackled four major aspects of stroke care.