Youth Stroke Crisis: Unseen Threat on the Rise
Experts in West Bengal are raising alarms about the increasing incidence of strokes among younger populations, attributing the trend to lifestyle changes, stress, and undiagnosed hypertension. With younger individuals increasingly affected, healthcare professionals stress the importance of immediate medical intervention and healthy lifestyle choices to mitigate risks.
- Country:
- India
In light of World Stroke Day, neurologists in West Bengal have highlighted a disturbing trend: strokes are increasingly affecting younger generations, with nearly one in five patients now under 45. Rising stress, poor lifestyle choices, and undiagnosed hypertension are primarily to blame, experts say.
Dr. MS Purkait, Medical Superintendent of Techno India DAMA Hospital, emphasizes that while 70% of stroke occurrences are in older adults, an alarming 20% are now seen in those below 45. Contributing factors include uncontrolled hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, alcohol, chronic stress, and sedentary lifestyles.
India faces a staggering 1.8 million new stroke cases annually, with a 5-10% yearly increase. The need for quick action is paramount—early intervention within the 'golden hour' significantly influences patient outcomes, explains Dr. Joydeep Biswas of Ruby General Hospital. Advances in AI technology are also aiding in swift diagnosis and personalized treatment plans.
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