The stroke is one of the main causes of death and disability In the world. It is also known as cerebral infarction and in recent years there has been a worrying increase in the number of cases globally. This increase not only affects older people, but also young adults. This has turned on the alarms in the medical community.
Anyway, it is a situation that is reversible. Prevention and education are powerful tools to reduce the impact of stroke on the world. The increase in cases is a complex problem that cannot be attributed to a single cause, but to various factors that we will see below.
Lifestyles
One of the main causes of the increase in strokes in the world is The prevalence of unhealthy lifestyles. Sedentary lifestyle, poor diet and excessive consumption of alcohol and tobacco are factors that contribute to the increase in cases of cerebral infarction.
A diet rich in saturated fats, sugars and salt, combined with the lack of physical activity, leads to problems such as obesity and diabetes. Both are important risk factors for ICTUS.
In addition, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption They damage blood vessels and increase blood pressurewhich further increases risk. These habits, increasingly common in urbanized and stressful societies, are promoting the increase in cases in young adults.
Pollution and stress
Exposure to air pollution, especially in large cities, has been identified as a risk factor for stroke. Fine particles and toxic gases, such as nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide, Negatively affect cardiovascular health. They inflame the arteries and increase blood pressure, which raises the probability of suffering a cerebral infarction.
The accelerated life rhythm and daily pressures also play an important role. Chronic stress and mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety, are associated with a higher risk of stroke. These factors can trigger physiological changes, such as increased blood pressure and inflammation, which impact the cardiovascular system.
Disease patterns
Some diseases such as Hypertension, diabetes and atrial fibrillation are increasing worldwide. All these conditions are related to genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors and constitute risk factors for stroke.
Arterial hypertension is the main cause of strokesince the arteries weakens and increases the probability of breaking or obstructing. The problem is that many people are not aware that these diseases suffer or do not control them properly and this makes them more vulnerable.
Aging
One of the most important factors behind the increase in stroke cases is the aging of the world’s population. Thanks to medical advances and a better quality of life, people live more years. However, With age increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
As the population ages, It is natural that strokes increase. This phenomenon is especially evident in developed countries, where life expectancy is higher.
Access to health
Not all people have the same opportunities to prevent or treat a stroke. In many regions of the world, access to preventive and emergency health services is limited, especially in low and medium income countries.
This It makes early detection and proper treatment more difficult of risk factors such as arterial hypertension, diabetes and atrial fibrillation, which are the main causes of stroke. In these regions, these events are usually more frequent and also more serious, since many people do not receive medical attention in time.
Prevention, the key to reducing ICTUS cases
The good news is that many of the risk factors associated with the stroke can be controlled. Some changes in lifestyle and the adoption of healthy habits They can make a big difference:
- Balanced diet. Adopting a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low in saturated fats and sugars can help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of hypertension and diabetes.
- Regular exercise: Performing physical activity at least 150 minutes a week can improve cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of stroke.
- Control stress: stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga and therapy can be useful to maintain mental and emotional health.
- Stop smoking and moderate alcohol: Reducing or eliminating tobacco consumption and limiting alcohol consumption can have a significant impact on general health.
- Medical reviews: Maintaining regular control with a doctor to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose levels can help detect and treat problems before they become a threat.
Education and awareness on this subject are fundamental to combat this growing epidemic. Each small change counts, and together we can work towards a healthier future.
