Chinese Medical Journal · Nov 5, 2026
Stroke prevention and management in China: Insights from the China Stroke Prevention and Treatment Report
By Yao L, Yu E, Xu Z et al.
Stroke is the leading cause of death and disability among the Chinese population and a leading cause of hospitalization in China, posing a serious threat to public health and socioeconomic development. Based on the China Stroke Prevention and Treatment Report 2024, this article summarizes the epidemiological characteristics of stroke in China and highlights its growing economic burden. Given China’s risk factor profile, sustained efforts to improve hypertension awareness, treatment, and control, particularly by strengthening hypertension screening in young adults, may represent one of the most cost-effective strategies for stroke prevention and management in the country. Although reperfusion therapy and related clinical research in China have largely aligned with international standards, approximately half of patients still experience unfavorable outcomes after reperfusion therapy. Improving outcomes in these patients should therefore be a major focus of future research. Under the strategic guidance of government authorities and with the expertise of stroke specialists, continued efforts to advance stroke prevention and management practices and strengthen a comprehensive prevention and treatment system tailored to China’s national context should remain a key priority.