Up to 80% of stroke is preventable - according to ASA

ASA’s latest guidelines on stroke risk reduction are very important. In their recommendations, the ASA urges healthcare professionals to screen patients for risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, obesity, and high blood sugar. The guidelines highlight unique risk factors for females and transgender women and how social determinants of health impact stroke risk. The guidelines also give importance benefits of GLP-1 drugs for cardiovascular health. It also encourages a balanced diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a proper weight, and getting adequate sleep.

Some facts about strokes in India
The incidence of strokes in India is growing and is higher than in high-income countries. In 2021, India had 9.4 million people with stroke. This is a 47% increase from 1990. The annual incidence of stroke is around 145 per one lakh people. The average age of stroke patients is younger than in Western countries. Males have a higher prevalence but this varies by region and age group. Urban people are more prone to stroke.

Two types of strokes are common
Most strokes are ischemic, which are caused by a blood clot blocking an artery or vein that supplies blood to the brain or neck artery resulting in insufficient oxygen delivery to the brain. This causes brain cells and tissues to die within minutes. It accounts for 87% of all strokes. One symptom of this has been it causes a gradual progressive headache.

Another is the haemorrhagic stroke which occurs when a blood vessel bleeds inside the brain. This accounts for about 13% of all strokes. Its symptoms have been it causes sudden severe headaches, vomiting, seizures weakness on one side of the body, and rapid neurological deterioration.

Some of the ASA guidelines
First, the recommendation for doctors is to consider prescribing GLP-1 weight loss drugs, according to many specialists around the world. Second is a healthy diet for strike prevention similar to the well-known Mediterranean diet. More fruits and vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, and heart-healthy fats are included in these diets. It discourages processed foods, added sugars, refined grains, and alcohol consumption.

Third includes exercise and stroke prevention that is physical activity is essential to reduce stroke risk and keep overall heart health. At least 150 minutes a week or 75 minutes a week of vigorous activity aerobic activity throughout the week.

Fourthly, regular check-ups and control of blood pressure with the help of a good lifestyle including quality sleep and medication if necessary.