A recent report by the World Stroke Organization-Lancet Neurology Commission on Stroke has projected a very troubling statistic related to stroke deaths. The report assessed the number of stroke deaths worldwide to predict as much as a 50% increase in stroke related deaths by the year 2050. Alex Chebl, M.D., a vascular and interventional neurologist at Henry Ford Health explains some of the reasons for this and what can be done about it.
“With the advancements being made in stroke care in high-income countries, it widens the gap in stroke care and public health awareness compared to low and middle-income countries,” says Dr. Chebl. “That being said, following a long period of steady decline in stroke deaths in the U.S., stroke death rates have started to level off.”
Dr. Chebl cites a few reasons for this projected incline in stroke and stroke-related deaths – including our aging population, lack of initiative to prevent strokes and even healthcare disparities.
Factors Of Stroke Risk In The U.S.
More people in the U.S. are living longer – into their 80s, 90s and 100s. But with age comes an increased risk for stroke and stroke-related deaths. Heart and brain arteries narrow and harden as you age, increasing your chance of developing a blockage. So, it makes sense that the older our population gets, the more cases of stroke deaths. But old age isn’t the only factor contributing to high stroke cases. In fact, Dr. Chebl notes that cases of stroke in younger people have increased over the past 5-10 years and saw a significant bump at the start of COVID-19 as well.
“In addition to the increased risk of clotting with infection of the COVID-19 virus early on in the pandemic, we saw a major lapse in preventative care during this time,” says Dr. Chebl. “A lot of people stopping prioritizing all aspects of their health, and unfortunately, that has resulted in a lot of risk factors of stroke going unchecked.” Many of these risk factors were increasing in younger and middle-aged patients even before the pandemic.
Some of these stroke risk factors include:
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Drug, alcohol and tobacco use
- Lack of exercise (sedentary lifestyle)
- Poor dietary choices
Additionally, race also plays a role in the rise of stroke cases across the U.S. Studies show that African Americans are genetically predisposed to stroke – and almost twice as likely to have one compared to other racial groups. As a result, African Americans living in the U.S. have a higher risk of a stroke-related death. And while being vigilant with your health is recommended – especially if you are at a higher risk of stroke – health disparities and inequities associated healthcare access put limits on the quality of care necessary to treat stroke.
Taking Control Of Your Stroke Risk
Henry Ford Stroke Care
All that being said, Dr. Chebl stresses the importance of taking ownership of your health – and talking with your doctor.
“If you have risk factors of a stroke, make sure you are taking steps to control these aspects of your health.” Dr. Chebl says. “See your physician on a regular basis to assess these risk factors and come up with a plan of action to improve your overall health.”
If you have had a stroke already, don’t think the rising risk of stroke or stroke death doesn’t apply to you. In fact, after you have had a stroke, you are at an even higher risk of having a heart attack or another, more serious stroke. In this case, talk with your doctor to identify the cause of your stroke. From there, your doctor can help you get started on a treatment plan that can lower your risk of another stroke in the future.
Some treatment options that might be recommended (besides controlling your risk factors) include:
- Anticoagulants
- Taking a daily statin (cholesterol lowering drugs)
- Surgery
- Endovascular therapies
Make sure to follow through with any treatment your doctor puts in place. Stopping or changing your treatment plan without your doctor’s approval could be dangerous to your health and stroke risk. If you notice any changes in your health, talk with your doctor.
Spotting The Signs Of Strokes
If you begin experiencing stoke-like symptoms – seek medical attention right away. Use the acronym F.A.S.T. (Facial drooping, Arm weakness, Slurred speech, Time to call 911) to remember.
“One thing that I stress to patients is to remember that a stroke impacts your brain – the organ you use to make judgement calls,” says Dr. Chebl. “If you have factors in your life the put you at risk of stroke, everyone around you (including family, friends and coworkers) needs to be able to recognize the symptoms of stroke too.”
Reviewed by Dr. Alex Chebl, a stroke and interventional neurologist and director of the Henry Ford Comprehensive Stroke Center. He sees patients at Henry Ford Hospital and Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital.
