Philadelphia (August 2001)— Loretta M. McLaughlin, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Magee Rehabilitation Hospital, has been elected to the Pennsylvania Joint State Government Commission’s Stroke Prevention Task Force Advisory Committee. The committee’s main purpose is to promote professional and public education and awareness, and to improve the quality of care for stroke victims.

The 16-person committee was formed to develop and implement a comprehensive statewide stroke prevention plan. This includes providing information on the warning signs and symptoms of stroke, and guidelines on the treatment of stroke patients. The committee will also identify healthy lifestyle practices that reduce the risk of stroke.

Stroke is a devastating disease that takes an enormous toll on Americans. It is the third leading cause of death in the United States and a leading cause of disability. Each year approximately 700,000 people suffer a new or recurrent stroke. On average, someone suffers a stroke in the United States every 53 seconds. Every 3.3 minutes, someone dies of stroke. Educating the public on how to recognize the warning signs of stroke is crucial.