FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	Contact: Adam Telle
March 27 , 2007	(202)224-6408

WASHINGTON, DC – Senator Thad Cochran (R-MS) joined today with Senator Edward Kennedy (D-MA) to introduce the “Stroke Treatment and Ongoing Prevention Act of 2007," legislation that would develop a comprehensive system dedicated to prevention, early intervention, and treatment of stroke.

“Strokes have a devastating impact on our nation, and stroke-related deaths are especially prevalent in Mississippi,” Senator Cochran said.  “I am pleased to work with Senator Kennedy to combat this disease by introducing the STOP Stroke Act.  This legislation will assist states and health professionals in enhancing their systems of stroke prevention and treatment.”

“The physical, emotional, and financial toll of stroke on individuals and their families is enormous,” Senator Kennedy said.  “This bill represents a national commitment to end the suffering from stroke and will help bring what we’ve learned in the laboratory to the bedside of all patients.” 

The bill would authorize funds for the development of statewide systems for stroke care.  These statewide networks would rely on information-sharing among agencies and individuals involved in the study and provision of stroke care.  In addition, training and best practice guidelines would be made available for health professionals.  The bill would also authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services, through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, to enhance the development and collection of data related to the care of acute stroke patients.

"The STOP Stroke Act will help us combat this debilitating disease on several fronts and educate Americans about their risk factors for stroke," said Daniel Jones, M.D., Incoming President of the American Heart Association.  "With stroke the nation's No. 3 killer and a leading cause of long-term disability, it's critical that patients receive effective treatment and rehabilitation services to increase their chances for survival and improve quality of life.  We applaud Senators Cochran and Kennedy for their efforts to address a serious health issue that continues to touch families nationwide."  

The STOP Stroke Act was approved by the Senate during the 107th Congress and the House of Representatives during the 108th Congress.