A recent study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates a concerning rise in stroke prevalence among Americans under 65, a demographic traditionally less affected by this severe health issue.
This trend is particularly alarming as strokes are the fifth-leading cause of death in the U.S.
While strokes are generally associated with older populations, the latest CDC analysis reveals an uptick in cases among those aged 18 to 64.
“The prevalence of stroke rose by nearly 8% overall from 2011-2013 compared with 2020-2022,” the CDC reports, indicating a shift that is more pronounced among younger adults.
Specifically, stroke cases in adults between 18 and 44 rose by approximately 15%, and by nearly 16% in those aged 45 to 64.
Obesity and opioid use have been identified as key contributors to this increase.
“The prevalence of obesity…increased from 27.5% to 43% among males and from 33.4% to 41.9% among females over roughly two decades,” according to the CDC study.
The opioid crisis has also played a role, with a noted rise in hospitalizations for stroke linked to opioid use and infective endocarditis, an inflammation that affects the heart and can increase stroke risk.
“The opioid overdose epidemic…might also have contributed to increased stroke prevalence among younger adults,” the researchers suggested.
High blood pressure, another significant stroke risk factor, remains a critical concern.
Despite these troubling trends, the CDC noted there was “little difference in self-reported stroke prevalence before and during the COVID-19 pandemic,” though other studies have indicated increased mortality rates among certain demographics during the pandemic.
The implications of these rising stroke rates are profound, not only due to the health impact but also the economic burden, with stroke care costing the U.S. an estimated $56.2 billion annually.
This increase comes although stroke mortality rates have decreased, indicating better emergency response and treatment options.
Dr. Christopher David Anderson, a neurologist, points to the silver lining, stating, “Nobody is destined to have a stroke,” highlighting the importance of managing modifiable risk factors as a prevention strategy.
The CDC has called for better public health strategies to address this growing issue, stressing the importance of targeted interventions to reduce stroke risks and improve overall health.
This includes greater public awareness and education about the risk factors and signs of stroke, as well as community and healthcare initiatives to manage and mitigate these risks effectively.
The increase in stroke cases among younger Americans serves as a stark reminder of the need for continued action in combating this life-threatening condition.