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6 Headlines UPDATE 1 in 3 Kiwis are affected by Everyone knows someone affected by a neurological condition. It might even be you. The most accurate recent data tells us that at least 1 in 3 Kiwis will be affected in their lifetime. Let’s take a look at what’s behind this updated statistic. 1. Currently, the most accurate data for neurological conditions as a whole comes from the Global Burden of Disease study. It includes a broad range of conditions such as stroke and migraine. According to this data, more than 1 in 3 New Zealanders experience a neurological condition. 2. Our population is ageing, and age is a risk factor for many neurological conditions. Advances in medicine have also resulted in people with neurological conditions living longer. Finding cures for neurological diseases is our ultimate goal. This involves lots of research into understanding, preventing and treating these conditions. Incredible advances have already been made – many of which you’ve read about in Headlines – and people with neurological disease are living longer than they used to, with a better quality of life. That’s really encouraging for us all – and it simply couldn’t happen without your support. For instance, Professor Alan Barber, the Neurological Foundation Chair of Clinical Neurology, has helped to develop new techniques for stroke patients that have improved outcomes and increased survival rates. Although some stroke patients still face long-term disability, a greater number of patients are making faster and full recoveries. Thanks to your support, people now have hope. Although the statistic 1 in 3 looks daunting, the potential to truly make a difference is enormous. Thank you so much for your generosity. It makes the world of difference for those affected by neurological conditions, their family and whānau.