[The epidemiology of stroke]

A special significance is attached to stroke in geriatrics, because, with its complex clinical manifestation and the far-reaching consequences for the patient, the social surroundings, and for society, it is the diagnosis which is most in the foreground in both acute geriatrics and in rehabilitative geriatrics and care. The work presented gives an overview of the essential epidemiological aspects of stroke: mortality, lethality, incidence, prevalence, risk factors and predictors. Furthermore, the socio-epidemiological aspects are considered in the light of psychiatric and social risk factors, as there is a considerable lack of research in this area. And not least, the care aspect and the economical relevance of the care of stroke patients, as a logical consequence, are also dealt with.