StrokeSmart™ Launches Redesigned Magazine and Interactive Website

CENTENNIAL, Colo., Feb. 5, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- StrokeSmart, National Stroke Association's flagship publication dedicated to the millions of families impacted by stroke, launched today with a redesigned magazine and a new interactive website.

The new magazine features a sleek redesign, more engaging content and brain-boosting games. The new website (www.strokesmart.org) features daily content, social media interaction, news and research updates and a peer-to-peer conversation for survivors. Combined, the magazine and website comprise a unique community of stroke survivors, caregivers and healthcare professionals.

The new website also features a comprehensive Resource Directory. Billed as the "yellow pages for stroke," it enables users to search national and local stroke-related products and services. Businesses can upload a free entry or purchase an upgraded listing for improved search results and greater visibility. The directory is free for website users.

National Stroke Association's Chief Executive Officer Jim Baranski said readership feedback and a shift in publishing led to repackaging StrokeSmart into a multichannel offering. "Our readers told us they want 24/7 access to the important stories and information that StrokeSmart provides," he said. "They want an ongoing conversation about stroke—and we listened."

Recent data from National Stroke Association shows:

• There are more than 7 million stroke survivors over age 20 in the U.S.
• Nearly 800,000 strokes occur in the U.S. every year.
• StrokeSmart currently reaches more than 270,000 readers.
• Almost 75 percent of readers get their stroke information solely from StrokeSmart.
• 50 percent of readers say StrokeSmart is the "most important resource" for stroke information, inspiration and support.

"It was clear that we must commit to a long-term content strategy and continue offering all of it for free," Mr. Baranski said. "Unfortunately, the number of people impacted by stroke isn't going to decrease any time soon—we want our readers to have this resource at their fingertips."

Working under the direction of National Stroke Association's marketing team, media strategists Association Media Partners redesigned the print magazine while creating the companion website to reach a wider audience.

StrokeSmart's newly integrated media platform aims to share the stories and news of a community impacted by stroke. One subscriber, Julie Dueease , describes StrokeSmart articles as a "very important part of healing." "That's just one perspective," said Taryn Fort , director of marketing and communications at National Stroke Association, "but a peek into what this brand is at its core. We want StrokeSmart to be a part of all the stroke recoveries across the country."

The first 2013 issue of StrokeSmart arrives in mailboxes this week.

StrokeSmart subscriptions are free online or by calling 1-800-STROKES.

About National Stroke Association

National Stroke Association is the only national organization in the U.S. that focuses 100 percent of its efforts on stroke by developing compelling education and programs focused on prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and support for all impacted by stroke. Visit www.stroke.org to learn more.

Press Contact: Taryn Fort
tfort@stroke.org
303-754-0919

Related Links:
StrokeSmart offers daily content and a resource directory for the stroke community.   
Visit for more information about stroke.

SOURCE National Stroke Association

RELATED LINKS
http://www.stroke.org