Stroke Surge

India has witnessed a sharp rise in stroke cases over the past three decades, as reported in a study published in Lancet Neurology. The country recorded more than 1.25 million new stroke cases in 2021, a significant increase from 650,000 in 1990 — a 51 percent rise. Stroke prevalence in India has also surged by 47 percent, growing from 4.4 million cases in 1990 to 9.4 million in 2021, according to the figures of the National Institute for Stroke & Applied Neurosciences at Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand. Globally, the number of people affected by stroke reached 11.9 million in 2021, a 70 percent increase since 1990. With 1.25 million new cases, India accounted for 10 percent of the global stroke burden that year. On the occasion of World Stroke Day, observed every October 29, Dr. Sushil Razdan, a leading neurologist of Kashmir, pointed out that up to 80 percent of strokes can be prevented by adopting healthier lifestyle choices and managing underlying health conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and obesity. “Stroke is the third leading cause of death worldwide,” Dr. Razdan states. With advances in stroke management, such as thrombosis (clot-busting therapy), thrombectomy surgeries, and advanced antiplatelet medications, stroke outcomes have improved; however, Dr. Razdan emphasizes prevention as the most powerful tool in combating stroke risks. He highlighted the importance of recognizing early stroke symptoms, such as vision and speech disturbances, sudden numbness, or weakness in the limbs. He underscores the “window period” of 2 to 3 hours, during which timely treatment can often reverse or reduce stroke effects. Quick recognition by individuals, families, and even bystanders can significantly improve recovery chances. Moreover, physiotherapy and medications play crucial roles in post-stroke recovery, helping individuals regain their physical strength and cognitive abilities. Dr. Razdan’s message stresses lifestyle modifications as essential prevention strategies. Regular exercise, managing blood pressure, avoiding smoking, and controlling blood sugar are all effective in reducing stroke risks. “These are steps we can take today to create a healthier tomorrow,” he says. Recent studies have also shown that stress and depression increase stroke risk, particularly among middle-aged and older adults. Chronic stress releases hormones that, while harmless in the short term, can, over time, cause hardening of the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. This narrowing of the arteries is closely linked to stroke risk. Depression has been associated with hypertension and atrial fibrillation (AF), conditions that further elevate the chances of stroke. Additionally, depression can increase blood clotting, further compounding stroke risks. Experts recommend that individuals experiencing high levels of stress or depression seek professional help, as effective treatments and therapies are available to support mental well-being. This mental health focus is crucial since managing mental health can also alleviate physical health risks associated with stroke. Regular exercise reduces blood pressure, improves circulation, and has been proven to reduce stress levels. In fact, for those with mild to moderate depression, exercise has been shown to be as effective as some antidepressant medications.