Stroke continues to be the leading cause of death and disability in Portugal, with around 25,000 cases a year and three occurrences every hour. Of these, at least one person dies and another is left with sequelae, often of working age. On World Stroke Day, marked on 29 October, the Order of Physiotherapists reinforces the importance of prevention, rehabilitation and the creation of structured care pathways that guarantee equitable access to physiotherapy at all stages of the disease.
Stroke mainly affects people of working age, requiring an integrated approach that begins with primary prevention. Physiotherapy plays a central role in this area, contributing to the promotion of physical activity, assessment of functional fitness, management of risk factors and health education throughout the life cycle. Regular physical exercise, a balanced diet, control of hypertension and diabetes, smoking cessation and a reduction in alcohol consumption can prevent up to 80% of strokes.
In the post-acute phase, the intervention of physiotherapists is crucial to recovering mobility, functionality and autonomy, reducing complications and improving the quality of life of those affected. Rehabilitation must be early, intensive and adapted to individual needs, also involving family members and carers to ensure a safe and sustainable recovery.
The current reality, however, shows that only 30% of stroke survivors in Portugal have access to intensive rehabilitation care, and around 65% do not receive adequate multi-professional follow-up. The Order of Physiotherapists therefore advocates the implementation of a clear and structured care pathway that allows direct and rapid access to physiotherapy and ensures continuity of care from hospitalisation to rehabilitation in the community.
Strengthening human resources in physiotherapy, improving coordination between levels of care and creating innovative models such as the “Via Verde à Fisioterapia” or the “Cheque Fisioterapeuta” are fundamental measures to save lives, reduce disability and promote functional recovery.
World Stroke Day is an opportunity to renew our commitment to public policies that put prevention and functional recovery at the centre of health priorities in Portugal. Physiotherapy is essential on this path - from prevention to rehabilitation - helping to transform survival into quality of life.