The number of stroke deaths is expected to grow exponentially within the next four decades, a recent report showed. The Lancet Neurology reported the worldwide mortality rate is expected to rise by 50% by 2050.
One of the report’s authors, Valery Feigh, explained the chances of stroke have grown faster than expected, especially in people younger than 55 and in low- to middle-income countries. The gap in chances of having a stroke in rich countries from poor countries continues to get wider, according to health.com.
Some of the reasons for the projected increase in stroke cases come from a lack of awareness about stroke risk factors, a lack of regular monitoring of stroke risk factors, poor lifestyle habits, and a lack of primary prevention strategies available.
The increased number of projected strokes can lead to more people living with long-term disabilities, which will increase the cost of health care. The increase in projected numbers also comes with countries like America aging more, as the percentage of citizens 65 or older is expected to increase from 17% to 22% by 2050.
The best way to prevent a stroke is to live a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and exercise. Decreasing the use of tobacco and alcohol is also encouraged. Risk factors of a stroke include hypertension, diabetes and high cholesterol.
