New Report Predicts 50% Increase in Stroke Deaths by 2050 Without Intervention
According to a new report from the World Stroke Organization-Lancet Neurology Commission, the number of people who die from stroke worldwide could increase by 50% by 2050 if no significant action is taken to limit the prevalence of stroke and its risk factors. Stroke is currently the second leading cause of death globally, responsible for 6.6 million deaths in 2020. This number is projected to reach 9.7 million in 2050.
The report highlights the urgent need for improved stroke services and prevention efforts. “The gaps in stroke services across the world are catastrophic. We need a drastic improvement today, not in 10 years,” says Dr. Sheila Martins, president of the World Stroke Organization. The researchers identified key barriers to high-quality surveillance, prevention, care, and rehabilitation. These barriers include low awareness of stroke and its risk factors such as diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, poor diet, and smoking.
Most of the projected stroke deaths, 91%, will occur in low- and middle-income countries. However, the report also states that people living at the poverty level in high-income countries like the United States are also at higher risk. “Even within high-income countries, there are inequalities,” says Commission Co-chair Dr. Mayowa Owolabi. “Unequal exposure to some of these risk factors that are not treated, or they’re poorly controlled.”
The increase in stroke cases not only takes a physical toll on the global population but also has significant financial implications. The researchers estimate that the cost of treating and supporting stroke patients could double from $891 billion in 2020 to $2.3 trillion in 2050. The majority of these impacts will be felt in Africa and Asia.
To address this impending crisis, the report recommends introducing legislative regulations and taxation of unhealthy products by governments worldwide, such as salt, alcohol, sugary drinks, and trans-fats. It also suggests the implementation of low-cost surveillance systems, raising public awareness, and establishing effective acute stroke care. Telemedicine is another potential transformative solution to increase access to stroke treatments, particularly in areas with limited access to specialist doctors.
Prevention is key in reducing the burden of stroke. Last month, the World Health Organization identified hypertension as one of the leading risk factors for death and disability globally. High blood pressure is also a significant risk factor for stroke. Experts emphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy diet, a healthy weight, avoiding alcohol and tobacco, and regular exercise to prevent both stroke and hypertension.
It’s crucial for individuals to recognize the signs of a stroke, which include a sudden severe headache, vision problems, trouble walking, paralysis or numbness in the face or limbs, and difficulty speaking or understanding others. If someone experiences these symptoms, immediate medical attention is necessary.
The report serves as a wake-up call for governments, healthcare systems, and individuals around the world to take action to prevent and reduce the impact of stroke. With concerted efforts, the global community can work towards a future with fewer stroke-related deaths and disabilities.