Unveiling the Alarming Truth: Stroke Predicted to Claim 10 Million Lives Annually by 2050, Reveals Groundbreaking Report
Stroke deaths could surge by 50% to nearly 10 million annually by 2050, warns a report by the World Stroke Organization-Lancet Neurology Commission Urgent action is required to curb the prevalence and risk factors of stroke to prevent this alarming rise Subscribe to CNN Health's newsletter for updates
According to a report by the World Stroke Organization-Lancet Neurology Commission, if no significant measures are taken to reduce the occurrence of stroke and its risk factors, the global death toll from stroke will increase by 50% by 2050. The report predicts that stroke, currently the second leading cause of death globally, resulted in 6.6 million deaths in 2020 and is projected to reach 9.7 million by 2050.
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According to a study, having multiple symptoms of insomnia increases the risk of stroke in individuals under the age of 50. Dr. Sheila Martins, the president of the World Stroke Organization, emphasized the urgent need for significant improvement in stroke services worldwide, stating that waiting for 10 years is unacceptable.
The researchers interviewed 12 stroke experts from both high-income and low- and middle-income countries to analyze and identify barriers related to surveillance, prevention, care, and rehabilitation. Factors like population growth and aging were taken into consideration. The analysis revealed key obstacles, including a lack of awareness among the public regarding stroke and its risk factors, such as diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, unhealthy diet, and smoking.
According to the report, around 91% of the projected stroke deaths will take place in low- and middle-income countries. However, Dr. Mayowa Owolabi, the Commission Co-chair from the University of Ibadan in Nigeria, highlights that individuals residing at the poverty level in high-income nations such as the United States also face an increased risk.
"Even among nations with high income, disparities exist," he pointed out. "Unequal levels of exposure to certain untreated or poorly controlled risk factors contribute to this." The rise in stroke cases not only affects the physical well-being of the global population but also imposes a financial burden.
According to Dr. Valery Feigin, a co-chair of the commission from Auckland University of Technology, stroke takes a devastating toll on the global population, resulting in death and permanent disability for millions of individuals annually, while also incurring billions of dollars in expenses. The researchers anticipate that the cost of caring for and assisting stroke patients could potentially increase twofold, from $891 billion in 2020 to $2.3 trillion in 2050. Africa and Asia are expected to bear the brunt of these consequences.
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The lack of funding is a significant obstacle in implementing stroke prevention and care recommendations. Our commission suggests that every government worldwide should consider introducing legislative regulations and taxations on unhealthy products like salt, alcohol, sugary drinks, and trans-fats, according to Feigin's statement.
According to Martins, the integration of telemedicine has the potential for a significant transformation. She highlighted the common issue where countries possess the necessary healthcare system and medication, but struggle to find doctors available to provide treatment. This could greatly enhance access to specialized treatments.
The authors of the new report have formulated 12 evidence-based suggestions to aid in the global prevention of strokes. These recommendations include the implementation of affordable surveillance systems, enhancing public awareness, and establishing efficient acute stroke care. In a recent release, the World Health Organization identified hypertension as a leading risk factor for death and disability worldwide, with high blood pressure also being a significant risk factor for strokes.
Experts advise that maintaining a nutritious diet, a healthy weight, abstaining from alcohol and tobacco, and engaging in regular exercise are the most effective means of preventing both stroke and hypertension. The Mayo Clinic states that strokes are typically distinguished by the occurrence of a sudden, intense headache, vision impairments in one or both eyes, difficulties with walking, paralysis or numbness in the face or limbs, and speech or comprehension challenges.
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There are two primary categories of stroke: ischemic and hemorrhagic. Ischemic strokes occur when the blood flow to a specific area of the brain is obstructed by clots or particles such as fatty deposits known as plaque, as stated by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
On the other hand, a hemorrhagic stroke refers to the occurrence when a blood vessel in the brain experiences a leak or rupture.
If blood flow is obstructed for a brief period – typically lasting a few minutes – it is referred to as a transient ischemic attack (TIA), commonly known as a mini-stroke. While these incidents are considered a medical emergency, they could serve as an indicator or precursor to a potential stroke in the future.
