StrokeSmart(TM) Launches Redesigned Magazine and Interactive Website
Monday, February 4, 2013
By: Taryn Fort

Offerings Provide the Stroke Community with Free Interactive Resource Directory

CENTENNIAL, Colo., Feb. 4, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — StrokeSmart, the flagship publication from National Stroke Association dedicated to the millions of families impacted by stroke, launched today with a redesigned magazine and a new interactive website.

The new StrokeSmart magazine features a sleek redesign, improved readability, more engaging content and additional elements such as links to extra content online and brain-boosting games and puzzles. The new StrokeSmart website (http://www.strokesmart.org) features daily content from the world of stroke, social media interaction, news and research about stroke prevention and recovery and a critical peer-to-peer conversation for stroke survivors nationwide. Combined, the redesigned print publication and new website comprise a community of stroke survivors, caregivers and healthcare professionals unlike anything that has existed before.

The new website also features a comprehensive database called the StrokeSmart Resource Directory. According to the StrokeSmart managing editor Matthew Colella, the Resource Directory functions “like a yellow pages for stroke,” and enables users to search national and local listings for stroke-related companies, products and services. Businesses can upload a free Resource Directory entry or purchase an upgraded listing for improved search results and greater visibility. The StrokeSmart Resource Directory is free for website users and designed to be a one-stop destination for all stroke-related industry.

National Stroke Association’s chief executive officer Jim Baranski said readership feedback and a shift in the publishing industry led to repackaging StrokeSmart into a multichannel offering for the stroke community. "Media consumption is cross-platform now and our readers told us they want 24/7 access to the important stories and information that StrokeSmart provides," he said. "Put simply they want an ongoing conversation about stroke—and we listened."

Recent data from National Stroke Association and StrokeSmart shows:

• There are more than 7 million stroke survivors over the age of 20 in the U.S.
• Nearly 800,000 strokes occur in the U.S. every year (roughly one every 40 seconds).
• StrokeSmart magazine currently reaches more than 270,000 readers in the stroke community.
• Almost 75 percent of readers get their stroke information solely from StrokeSmart magazine.
• More than 60 percent of readers spend between 30 minutes and two hours with a single printed issue.
• 50 percent of readers say StrokeSmart magazine is the "most important resource" for stroke information, inspiration and support.

"It was clear that we must organizationally 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 current and future readers to have this resource at their fingertips."

Working under the direction of National Stroke Association’s marketing team, media strategists Association Media Partners (AMP) redesigned the print magazine while also creating the content rich companion website to reach into a wider audience. AMP also developed a cross platform monetization strategy leveraged to drive revenue, ensuring that all subscribers continue to receive StrokeSmart free of charge.

StrokeSmart’s newly integrated media platform collectively aims to share the stories and news of a community and world 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 valuable peek into what this brand is at its core. We want StrokeSmart to be a part of all the stroke recoveries happening across the country.”

The first 2013 issue of StrokeSmart arrives in mailboxes this week with a fresh look that maintains the stories of heroism and triumph that readers have come to expect.

Anyone interested in StrokeSmart can subscribe or renew for 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. Founded in 1984, the organization works every day to meet its mission to reduce the incidence and impact of stroke. Visit www.stroke.org to learn more.

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

SOURCE National Stroke Association