Worldwide stroke deaths are projected to increase by 50% by 2050, according to a report published in Lancet Neurology by the World Stroke Organization-Lancet Neurology Commission Stroke Collaboration Group. The report warns that this could result in as many as 9.7 million people dying from stroke per year. The increase is expected to be even higher among young people and those in low- and middle-income countries.
Currently, stroke is the second-leading cause of death globally, causing disability, dementia, and other health problems for millions of individuals annually. However, the distribution of stroke deaths is not equal, with 86% occurring in low- and middle-income nations. Furthermore, the number of strokes affecting people under the age of 55 is on the rise.
The researchers attribute the high number of stroke deaths to unequally distributed health-care resources, a lack of prevention programs, pollution, and lifestyle factors, among other issues. They emphasize that ignoring the public health burden of stroke could have severe consequences. The cost of stroke treatments and lost income is predicted to rise from $891 billion per year in 2017 to potentially $2.31 trillion by 2050.
Despite international targets to reduce noncommunicable diseases by 2050, the world is falling short of meeting these goals, according to the report. Committee co-chair Valery L. Feigin, from Auckland University of Technology in New Zealand, warns that urgent and effective action is necessary to address the growing burden of stroke.
The researchers recommend a range of measures, including awareness campaigns, low-cost surveillance, improved treatment and medication options, and regional cooperation, to combat the stroke crisis. They also note that stroke is highly preventable and treatable, with lifestyle factors such as a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and quitting smoking reducing the risk. Regular monitoring of conditions like high blood pressure can also help prevent strokes.
It is clear that urgent action is needed globally to tackle the growing burden of stroke and prevent the predicted increase in deaths. By implementing the recommended measures, it is possible to significantly reduce the impact of stroke and save millions of lives.