Stroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide, trailing only myocardial infarction (heart attack), and stands as the primary cause of disability. Globally, nearly 12 million new cases are recorded annually, with approximately 6,5 million deaths attributed to this condition. Doctor Hoang Tien Trong Nghia, Head of the Neurology Department at Military Hospital 175, highlighted these statistics during the "Updating Diagnosis and Treatment of Stroke Across the Military" training on 29/7.

Doctor Nghia noted that while many perceive strokes as sudden events, about 90% of stroke risks are modifiable. These risks can be effectively managed if detected and controlled early.

High blood pressure is the most significant risk factor, contributing to both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes. A concerning aspect is that high blood pressure often progresses silently, lacking clear symptoms, leading many to discover the condition only after complications arise. A meta-analysis involving over 613,000 individuals demonstrated that even a 10 mmHg reduction in systolic blood pressure significantly lowers the risk of cardiovascular events and stroke.

High cholesterol promotes the formation of atherosclerotic plaques, which narrow or block blood vessels supplying the brain, leading to ischemic stroke. This risk factor can be managed through diet, regular exercise, and medication when necessary.

Patient testing at Military Hospital 175. Photo: Quynh Tran

Heart disease, including atrial fibrillation, heart failure, valvular heart disease, or myocardial ischemia, increases the risk of blood clot formation, which can block brain arteries. A 30-year study of 289,000 individuals revealed that heart failure patients face two times higher risk of hemorrhagic stroke and five times higher risk of ischemic stroke compared to the general population.

Diabetes significantly elevates stroke risk, with individuals experiencing double the likelihood. This is because prolonged high blood sugar damages blood vessel walls, promotes atherosclerosis, and disrupts cerebral circulation.

Obesity and physical inactivity contribute to several risk factors, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. Maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in regular physical activity can substantially reduce stroke risk.

Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are also critical factors. Tobacco smoke damages blood vessels and increases the formation of blood clots. Notably, reducing the number of cigarettes smoked daily offers benefits; a study indicated that lighter smokers have a significantly lower stroke risk compared to those who smoke 20 cigarettes daily.

Doctor Hoang Tien Trong Nghia, Head of the Neurology Department at Military Hospital 175, at the "Updating Diagnosis and Treatment of Stroke Across the Military" training on 29/7. Photo: Hospital provided

Doctor Nghia emphasized that effectively managing these six factors not only prevents a first stroke but also limits the risk of recurrence for individuals who have previously experienced one. "Stroke is a medical emergency, but most risks can be prevented very early through chronic disease management and lifestyle changes," he stated.

The BE FAST principle helps in early stroke recognition. It includes: sudden loss of Balance, blurred or lost vision (Eyes), facial drooping (Face), arm or leg weakness (Arms), and slurred Speech. If any of these signs appear, immediate emergency medical attention is crucial, as approximately 1,9 million brain cells are lost every minute that passes.

Le Phuong