According to a study published in the journal Neurology, the number of deaths from ischemic stroke could be responsible for 5 million deaths by 2030.
- The number of ischemic stroke deaths worldwide has increased from 2 million in 1990 to more than 3 million in 2019, and is expected to reach nearly 5 million by 2030.
- The growth and aging of the population would be the main causes of this increase.
- However, the researchers identified 7 other risk factors.
Ischemic stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. A Chinese study published in the journal Neurology May 17, 2023 shows that this disorder – which results from the obstruction of an artery of the brain bringing blood rich in oxygen and nutrients, by a blood clot and / or a fatty deposit – could claim even more victims in coming years.
Ischemic stroke: a worrying increase in the number of deaths by 2030
The number of deaths worldwide from ischemic stroke has risen from two million in 1990 to more than three million in 2019, according to the study researchers. They even project nearly five million deaths by 2030.
In contrast, analysis of global data available to scientists shows that the incidence of stroke has fallen from 66 per 100,000 people in 1990 to 44 per 100,000 people in 2019. “This decrease in the stroke rate likely means that the overall increase in the number of strokes worldwide is primarily due to population growth and aging”explained study author Lize Xiong of Tongji University in Shanghai, China.
Stroke: 7 major risk factors identified
However, the team also identified seven major risk factors that are contributing to the rise in stroke worldwide:
- smoking;
- a diet high in sodium;
- high blood pressure ;
- hypercholesterolemia;
- renal dysfunction;
- hyperglycemia;
- high BMI.
If these risk factors are not controlled or prevented in the coming years, the number of deaths from ischemic stroke in 2030 could even reach 6.4 million, instead of the 4.9 million currently projected, according to the researchers. At the end of their work, they thus underline the need to take measures to control the risk factors, such as stopping smoking, a balanced diet with low salt consumption, the practice of regular physical activity and the blood pressure monitoring.
