In the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 report, infections, genetic factors and malnutrition were among the factors that increase the risk of stroke in young people. According to a study conducted especially in the USA, there was an 11 percent increase in intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) cases in the 18-44 age group between 2004 and 2018. Prof. Dr. Talip Asil said, “The increase in strokes in young people is becoming more evident as a result of poor management of high blood pressure and other health problems.”
IT TAKES A LIFE EVERY 15 MINUTES
Prof. Dr. Asil said, “In Turkey, according to TÜİK data, 35 thousand 880 people died due to stroke in Turkey in 2020. In our country, one person dies every 15 minutes due to stroke. This shows that the risk of stroke at a young age is becoming an increasingly major health problem. “In addition, it is stated that the stroke rate of individuals under the age of 40 is much higher compared to Northern and Central European countries.”
‘DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT SHOULD NOT BE DELAYED’
Prof. Dr. said that individuals who have a stroke at a young age usually have different causes such as heart diseases, blood clotting disorders and vascular dissection. Dr. Asil said, “This situation makes paralysis not only a disease of elderly people, but also a health problem that all age groups can face. Early intervention in stroke is very important, and it is vital to start treatment quickly in individuals who encounter this disease at a young age. Stroke usually manifests itself with symptoms such as dizziness, weakness in the arms and legs, speech impairment and vision loss. “When such symptoms are observed, medical help should be sought without delay,” he said.
‘PREVENTIVE STRATEGIES SHOULD BE DEVELOPED’
Prof. Dr. Finally, Asil said, “More preventive strategies need to be developed to prevent the risk of stroke from increasing in the young population. This means that healthy living habits need to be adopted and health education strengthened throughout society. Exercising regularly, not smoking, eating healthy and coping with stress are considered among the most important factors in reducing this risk.
As a result, stroke at a young age is a preventable health problem, and it is of great importance to raise awareness in society about this issue and increase health education. “It is critical for young people to adopt healthy lifestyle habits for both their individual health and public health,” he said.
DHA