Katie Chappelle, associate director for Wales at the Stroke Association, said: "In Wales, our focus must remain on targeted stroke prevention for people at highest risk. "We now need strong Welsh Government leadership so health boards can deliver the updated Quality Statement for Stroke and make lasting improvements in stroke prevention and care." Stroke currently costs NHS Wales an estimated £220 million each year, with the total cost to the Welsh economy reaching £1.63 billion. "So many risk factors, like high blood pressure, are silent. Blood pressure checks are available at GP surgeries, pharmacies or can be done at home with monitors costing around £20.