Nestlé Health Science and the Stroke Foundation (Australia) collaborate to improve life after stroke for survivors

Nestlé Health Science and the Australian Stroke Foundation have entered into a partnership designed to improve the nutrition and hydration management of stroke survivors. Stroke is one of the leading causes of dysphagia (swallowing difficulties); it is estimated that 40%¹ of survivors have an ongoing need for swallowing support, leaving them vulnerable to dehydration, malnutrition and aspiration pneumonia.

There are more than 55,000 strokes each year in Australia², of which 20,000 are estimated to result in dysphagia.

“Patients suffering from dysphagia post-stroke have difficulties in eating and drinking, living well after their stroke can be a long and challenging journey. This can have a huge impact on quality of life and mental health of the survivor,” said Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer Sharon McGowan.

As part of the partnership, Nestlé Health Science will share resources with the Stroke Foundation, reaching both stroke survivors as well as their community of healthcare professionals operating throughout Australia. Nestlé Health Science will also be a supporting sponsor of ‘National Stroke Week’, an annual event to be held 4-10 September 2017.

Nestlé Health Science is actively developing innovative nutritional therapies for conditions like dysphagia with the goal of improving life after stroke for survivors, and is excited to be able to directly support those in need through our partnership with the Stroke Foundation.

References
1. Speech Pathology Australia Swallowing Awareness Day, 2017
2. National Stroke Foundation, 2017