Stroke in Young People and Women: Why Are Cases Increasing Globally?

In the last five years, the incidence in young people has grown, and the reduction in mortality is no longer advancing at the same pace. Youth is no longer a shield!

Marijuana increases the risk of stroke in young people

Stress and Sedentary Lifestyle: Invisible Enemies

From environmental pollution to daily stress, the list of risk factors is as long as the line at the bank on a Monday morning. And, oh surprise, old acquaintances like hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol are not falling behind. What a party of risks! According to neurologist Sebastián Ameriso, it's not just a matter of genetics. Socioeconomic differences and environmental disparities also play their part in this health drama.

Did you know that the underdiagnosis of stroke in women is a real problem? The old stereotype that only men over 70 should worry about a stroke has led to many women not receiving the correct diagnosis in time. What an injustice! Furthermore, women have a higher risk of mortality and are more likely to suffer long-term sequelae. Perhaps it's time to change that "identikit" of stroke.

High blood pressure increases the likelihood of stroke

A call to action: prevent rather than regret

Prevention is key, friends. And I'm not just talking about avoiding sugar and exercising (although that helps). It is increasingly important to expand management programs for risk factors and improve access to health services. If we can get hypertension control to reach 50% of the population instead of the current 36%, we could prevent thousands of deaths. Doesn't that sound like a good plan?

Stroke has become one of the leading causes of death, alongside COVID-19 and ischemic heart disease. During the pandemic, stroke mortality remained stable, but cases and years lived with disability increased. We need to strengthen our health services! Primary and secondary prevention are not optional, they are essential.

Women and Young People: A Wake-Up Call

Young women are facing a disproportionate increase in stroke cases. Hormonal factors, such as the use of contraceptives and complicated pregnancies, combined with conditions like hypertension, obesity, and diabetes, complicate the outlook. Additionally, they face specific barriers to obtaining an accurate diagnosis. It's time for this to change!

Young people, however, are not exempt from risk. The American Heart Association study reminds us that up to 50% of strokes in young adults have an unknown origin. Yes, unknown! Migraine and other non-traditional factors may be the hidden culprits.

In summary, age doesn't matter; stroke does not discriminate. Prevention, education, and strengthening public policies are essential. We cannot wait for the trend to become the norm. What do you think? Are we ready to face it?