Brain stroke cases increasing in younger population

Brain stroke has long been considered a disease of the elderly, but recent data suggests it is now commonly occurring in young population in India as well.

- Dr.Sanjay Pandey

The occurrence of stroke in young adults is particularly concerning as these patients in the prime of their life are often affected by physical disability, depression, cognitive impairment, and loss of productivity, all of which have serious personal, social, and economic implications.

Stroke is the second most common cause of death and the third-leading cause of death and disability combined in the world. So, it is a matter of serious concern that it is no longer a disease of the elderly in our country. A hospital-based study from India has shown that the proportion of strokes in young people now ranges from 15-30%. In another population-based study in the country, 8.8% of total stroke patients were found to belong to the younger age group.

The traditional risk factors of brain stroke include hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and hyperlipidemia (a condition in which blood has too many lipids or fats, like cholesterol and triglycerides). However, there are several other risk factors that are unique to the young Indian population, according to the doctor.