NHS England data shows an increase to 111,137 stroke admissions in England in 2023/24, from 87,069 in 2004/05, driven in part by an ageing population and the impacts of lifestyle factors on the nation's cardiovascular health.     

Professor Sir Stephen Powis, NHS national medical director, said: ‘There are likely to be a range of causes behind this alarming increase, but we know that lifestyle, and particularly obesity, poor diet and lack of exercise, are among common factors that can increase risk of stroke and have a significant impact on cardiovascular health for people of working age in their fifties and sixties.'

There has also been a 55% rise in admissions among people aged 50-59 (8,063 in 2004/5 vs 12,533 in 2023/24) - the highest increase among any age group. This is compared to a 42% increase for those aged 60-69, and a 25% rise for ages 70-79.   

 The figures come as the NHS launched a major campaign, NHS ‘Act FAST', urging the public to call 999 immediately if anyone experiences one of the three most common symptoms of strokes including struggling to smile (Face) or raise an arm (Arms), or slurring their words (Speech).