Strokes are on the rise worldwide, creating serious challenges for healthcare systems and communities everywhere. A recent study in The Lancet reveals that neurological conditions like strokes, migraines, Alzheimer’s disease, and dementia are now some of the biggest health issues globally. Among these, strokes stand out as a major problem.
The World Stroke Organisation (WSO) estimates that strokes cost the world over $721 billion, which is about 0.66% of the global GDP. From 1990 to 2019, stroke cases shot up by 70%, stroke-related deaths rose by 43%, the number of people living with strokes doubled, and the years of healthy life lost due to strokes increased by 143%. Most of these impacts (86% of deaths and 89% of lost healthy life years) hit low- and middle-income countries the hardest.
Ryan Snodgrass, cardiovascular category manager for Pharma Dynamics, explains why we’re seeing more strokes.
“One of the primary culprits is the rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases, such as hypertension, diabetes and obesity. These conditions, often exacerbated by sedentary lifestyles and poor dietary habits, significantly elevate an individual’s risk of experiencing a stroke.”
Ryan Snodgrass
He also mentions the aging population. “Another factor is the aging population demographics in many countries, which play a pivotal role in the uptick of stroke cases. As life expectancy increases and medical advancements allow people to live longer, the likelihood of age-related health issues, including strokes, also rises.
Additionally, in poorer countries, limited resources and inadequate healthcare make it tough to diagnose, treat, and recover from strokes.
Preventing strokes is crucial, and Snodgrass stresses the need for public awareness and lifestyle changes.
“Educating the public about risk factors and promoting lifestyle modifications can significantly reduce the incidence of strokes. Approximately 80% of chronic diseases and premature death can be prevented by making healthier lifestyle choices,” he asserts.
Reducing the risk of a stroke
Snodgrass recommends the following actions to lower the risk of stroke:
- Monitor blood pressure and cholesterol: High blood pressure and elevated cholesterol levels are major risk factors for strokes. Regular monitoring of these vital signs and adherence to prescribed medications can prevent complications and reduce the likelihood of experiencing a stroke.
- Maintain a healthy diet and exercise: Adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins can help control weight, blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, swimming or cycling, is also crucial for maintaining cardiovascular health and managing your weight.
- Quit smoking: Smoking significantly increases the risk of stroke by damaging blood vessels and promoting the formation of blood clots. Quitting smoking can yield immediate and long-term benefits for heart health.
- Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can raise blood pressure and contribute to the development of heart disease and stroke. Moderation is key, with healthcare professionals recommending no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.
- Manage diabetes: Individuals with diabetes are at a higher risk of suffering from strokes due to elevated blood sugar levels that damage blood vessels over time. Proper management of diabetes through medication, diet and regular monitoring is essential for preventing complications.
“By raising awareness, implementing preventive measures, and working together—healthcare professionals, policymakers, and communities—we can reduce the number of strokes and help people live healthier lives. It’s essential to take collective action now to prevent this public health crisis from worsening,” Snodgrass concludes.
Taking these steps, both individually and as a society, is crucial to tackling the increasing number of strokes and reducing their impact on global health.
ALSO READ: Strokes: Know your blood pressure and cholesterol levels
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