The strokes They are consolidated as one of the main threats to public health in the world. Official projections anticipate a sustained increase in cases in the coming yearswith consequences that affect both health systems and the working-age population.

Far from being an inevitable phenomenon associated with aging, scientific evidence and specialized organizations have warned that many of these episodes can be avoided through concrete and sustained interventions.

The debate becomes relevant after the estimates released by the Stroke Associationwho warned of a critical scenario in the absence of preventive actions. The organization maintains that risk reduction does not depend on complex technological advances, but on everyday decisions linked to blood pressure, physical activity, and management of heart conditions.

According to new forecasts from the Stroke Association, by 2035 there could be more than 151,000 strokes annually in the United Kingdom, representing 414 cases per day. This figure represents a increase close to 42% compared to current valueswhich are around 280 episodes per day or 106,565 per year.

This projected increase reinforces the urgency of adopting preventive measures at the individual and collective levels. In this context, Alexis Kolodziejdeputy executive director and head of influence and research for the organization, stressed to The Independent that the social perception of stroke It still carries misconceptions.

“Some members of the public think that strokes are an inevitable consequence of advancing age, but that is not at all the case,” Kolodziej said in a statement to The Independent.

Nine out of ten strokes can be preventedaccording to the Stroke Association. The agency maintains that the combination of regular medical check-ups, healthy habits and early detection of heart disease has a direct impact on risk.

“If you take action on your blood pressure, follow healthy living tips, and make sure you detect and monitor heart conditions, all of these things can have a significant positive impact on your risk of stroke,” Kolodziej said.

Age represents the main non-modifiable risk factoras explained by Kolodziej, who specified that the majority of cases occur in people over 70 years old. However, the specialist warned about an emerging phenomenon: the fastest growth in incidence in young adults.

“What we are currently seeing is that the incidence rate is increasing faster in younger people than in older people,” he said, adding that strokes in those under 55 years of age are more frequently linked to lifestyle factors.

The high blood pressure It is involved in about half of all strokes, according to data cited by The Independent. The mechanism involves both hemorrhagic and ischemic events.

“High blood pressure increases pressure on arteries throughout the body, but specifically in the brain, which can cause bleeding“Kolodziej explained. In other cases, the impaired blood flow It promotes the formation of clots, which by blocking a cerebral artery cause an ischemic stroke.

Regular blood pressure monitoring is among the most effective tools for reducing the risk of stroke. “It’s never too early to start measuring your blood pressure,” Kolodziej said. In the United Kingdom, the National Health Service (NHS) a persistent reading of 140/90mmHg or higher.

In adults, the optimal blood pressure is located in 120/80mmHgwhile systolic pressure values ​​between 120 and 129 mm Hgwith a diastolic of 80mmHgare classified as high normal pressurea clinical sign that guides making lifestyle adjustments to prevent hypertension.

The regular physical activity Contributes to healthy blood flow and reduces the risk of clot formation. Even simple actions are beneficial. “Going for a walk around the block or gardening helps a lot to reduce the risk of suffering a stroke,” said the specialist.

He salt consumption directly influences blood pressure. Kolodziej recommended paying attention to processed foods and labeling systems. Smoking represents another of the most harmful factors. “As soon as you stop smoking, your risk of having a stroke begins to reduce,” he noted.

He alcohol and recreational drugs They complete the list of elements to moderate or avoid, due to their negative impact on the cardiovascular system.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) increases the risk of stroke up to five times. It is a heart rhythm disorder that often has no symptoms.

Kolodziej suggested pulse checks and regular doctor visits. The diagnosis of AF requires the offer of an oral anticoagulantwhich is a daily medication that stops blood clots and significantly reduces the risk of stroke.