People in South Korea are experiencing far lower rates of stroke and cardiovascular deaths after long-term health reforms improved access to treatment and prevention.
“The ingredients for success — a regular provider, consistent treatment, free medicines and smart food policy — are possible in most countries,” said Tom Frieden, physician and public health expert.
Stroke deaths in South Korea fell from 248 per 100,000 people in 1990 to 32 per 100,000 in 2023, an 87% reduction. Blood pressure control also improved from about 1 in 20 adults to 6 in 10. The country strengthened primary healthcare, expanded a unified national insurance system, subsidised medicines and introduced policies to reduce sodium consumption, leading to nearly a quarter less sodium intake and offering a model that could help prevent millions of deaths worldwide.
