A new study has found that stroke rates continue to increase among young Americans. Young men are most likely to be at risk, which doubles the rate between males aged 18 to 44. Researchers assume that the increasing rate is due to several health conditions like diabetes and obesity.
A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that provides the nutrients and oxygen towards the brain is blocked or ruptured, this will lead to the death of the cells that causes impaired physical or cognitive abilities. Stroke is one of the most serious conditions in the United States which placed on the fifth spot as the cause of death for all age groups, according to the American Stroke Association.
Stroke is commonly associated among elderly. However, in the study, the researchers have discovered that hospitalization cases due to acute ischemic stroke increased by approximately 30 percent for women aged 35 to 44, and 42 percent for men in the same age group. Though the overall mortality rates for the past 50 years have decreased, the rates of stroke development among young Americans continue to increase. The study was published in JAMA Neurology.
The researchers could not point out the causes why stroke rates continue to increase, but they have identified some risk factors among young people that contribute to the development of the disease. Diabetes, obesity, hypertension, tobacco use, and lipid disorders are the common risk factors. Those who have three or more of the risk factors multiplied the rate among young Americans.
The research team suggests that young people who experience some of these risk factors need to focus on their lifestyle to reduce the risk and avoid further serious health problems.