THE Stroke Foundation is backing the new free digital tool Love Your Brain, designed to help Australians understand and manage their stroke risk. Developed with Monash University and the Menzies Institute for Medical Research at the University of Tasmania, Love Your Brain aims to reduce the annual number of strokes by empowering people with knowledge and practical steps to improve their health. Researchers are seeking participants aged 45 and over who have not experienced a stroke or major heart event. The program offers a 12-week tailored online course or a series of emails and SMS messages, providing insights into stroke risk factors, like high blood pressure, and how to lower them. Stroke Foundation CEO Dr Lisa Murphy said the initiative is a powerful way to put prevention directly into people’s hands. "Stroke can be a devastating disease with the impact to change lives in an instant by leading to complex visible and invisible disabilities, including issues with mobility, communication, sensory and cognitive changes, mental wellbeing impacts and even death,” she said. “The good news is that more than 80 per cent of strokes can be prevented, which is why tools such as Love Your Brain are so important to raise awareness about ways Aussies can reduce their personal risk of stroke, and protect their health and wellbeing. "This project is about raising awareness and making prevention practical. “Love Your Brain meets people where they’re at and encourages small changes that can make a big difference.” One in four people globally will experience a stroke in their lifetime. In Australia, more than 440,000 people live with the impact of stroke, and around 46,000 Australians have a stroke every year – one every 11 minutes. Most strokes can be prevented through simple lifestyle changes and knowing your personal risk. The trial requires no more than 30 minutes per week over 12 weeks and includes two online surveys. For more information or to enroll, visit https://strokefoundation.org.au/what-we-do/research/research-projects/love-your-brain
