NE HEALTH BUREAU
AHMEDABAD, OCT 29
On World Stroke Day, health experts are drawing attention to a concerning trend of strokes being increasingly reported in individuals under the age of 50 years. Experts share that 4 out of every 10 stroke patients are below the age of 50 years. As per National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research (NCDIR) data, over 1.6 million new stroke cases are reported in India every year.
- Stroke is becoming increasingly common among adults under 50
- Sedentary lifestyle, high stress, and chronic health conditions like hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, etc major risk factors
- Early detection using the BEFAST method and timely treatment can be life-saving
Once considered a disease primarily affecting older adults, stroke is now impacting younger populations, largely due to lifestyle-related risk factors. Sedentary habits, high cholesterol, diabetes, hypertension, and stress are major contributors. Changes in diet, lack of physical activity, smoking, and alcohol consumption further elevate the risk. Experts emphasise that stroke is increasingly a lifestyle disease, and awareness of risk factors and symptoms is critical for early intervention.
According to doctors, time is the most critical factor in reducing long-term damage and early recognition of stroke symptoms can save lives. The acronym BEFAST is a simple tool to remember the key signs: B – Balance: sudden loss of balance or coordination; E – Eyes: blurred or double vision; F – Face: drooping on one side of the face; A – Arms: weakness or numbness in one arm; S – Speech: slurred or difficult speech; T – Time: act immediately and seek medical help. If any of these symptoms appear, it is essential to go to the nearest stroke-ready hospital without delay.
“Stroke is treatable, and early medical care greatly improves recovery. It can happen at any age, so if you notice symptoms, go to a stroke-ready hospital immediately. Acting quickly during the first few hours gives the best chance of recovery,” said Dr Devashish Vyas, Interventional Neurologist, Apollo Hospitals, Ahmedabad.
Dr. Vyas further emphasised the importance of the “golden hour” in stroke treatment. “The first 60 minutes after a stroke occur are crucial. This ‘golden hour’ is when treatments like clot-busting medications and mechanical thrombectomy are most effective in restoring blood flow and minimising brain damage,” he added.
Modern stroke care offers two main treatments for acute ischemic stroke. IV Thrombolysis is a medicine given through a vein that dissolves blood clots and works best if given soon after symptoms start to reduce brain damage. It is effective in the first 4.5hours. Mechanical Thrombectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that physically removes a clot from a blocked brain artery, especially for large clots. It is most effective in the first 6 hours and in some cases till 24 hours. Both treatments are time-sensitive, so getting to a stroke-ready hospital quickly is crucial.
“Times have changed—stroke is no longer a condition without hope. Today, effective treatments are available that can help patients recover and return to their daily lives. These treatments allow patients to recover and reclaim their routines, work, and hobbies. Early intervention can truly transform outcomes.”, said Dr Sucheta Mudgerikar, Senior Consultant Neurologist, Apollo Hospitals, Ahmedabad
While treatment options are effective, prevention remains the most powerful tool against stroke. World Stroke Day serves as a reminder that awareness, prevention, and timely action can make the difference between recovery and long-term disability. Health authorities urge people to understand risk factors, recognise early symptoms, and seek immediate treatment when needed.
