Mizzou researcher works to help stroke survivors thrive

Oct. 31, 2024

While survivorship rates are on the rise for individuals who are diagnosed with a stroke, researchers at the University of Missouri are working to improve long-term outcomes for them.

Anna Boone, an assistant professor in the College of Health Sciences, recently received $2.8 million from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) for work designed to help stroke survivors return to their normal lives.

"Our medical system is great at addressing the acute needs following a stroke, but there's a significant gap when it comes to long-term care," Boone said. "This project is motivated by the need to address the chronic consequences of stroke, which have traditionally been ignored outside of the rehab community."

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the prevalence of stroke in the United States has increased by nearly 8% over the past decade. Stroke remains a leading cause of death in the U.S., and those who survive frequently face long-term disabilities.

Over the next five years, Boone will work with a team of Mizzou colleagues to explore ways to help stroke survivors improve their confidence, daily activities and overall health. Department of Occupational Therapy colleagues Tim Wolf and Rachel Proffitt are also involved in the project, in addition to Suhwon Lee with the Department of Statistics at Mizzou. Colleagues at the University of Washington include co-principal investigator Danbi Lee.

MU College of Health Sciences