Stroke strikes someone every two seconds globally – Neurologist

A Neurologist at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital’s Stroke Unit, Dr Freda Amoaten, has raised concern over the growing burden of stroke, citing global estimates that show a new case occurs every two seconds.

She said the condition remains a major public health concern, with about 12 million new cases recorded worldwide each year and approximately 100 million people living with its effects.

Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Friday, October 30, Dr Amoaten said the figures highlight the widespread risk of stroke, noting that one in every four people is likely to experience the condition in their lifetime.

She also cited Ghana Health Service figures indicating that about 25,000 stroke cases were reported in Ghana in 2021, warning that the number has continued to rise over the years.

“When you look at the global statistics, about 12 million people suffer new strokes every year, while approximately 100 million people are living with the condition. One in every four people is at risk of suffering a stroke in their lifetime. In another statistics every two seconds somebody is getting a stroke,” she said.

Stroke, she said occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is disrupted, causing the affected brain tissue to die. This can happen when a blood clot blocks a vessel supplying the brain or when a blood vessel bursts, resulting in bleeding in the brain.

Although stroke is often associated with older people, she said the condition is increasingly affecting people beyond the elderly population, making awareness and preventive action necessary.

She identified hypertension as one of the leading risk factors and urged the public to monitor and control their blood pressure, alongside managing blood sugar levels and engaging in regular physical activity.

“Know your numbers and control your blood pressure,” she advised, adding that several medications are available to help manage hypertension and reduce the risk of stroke.

Dr Amoaten said prevention remains central to reducing the burden of the condition, although it is not possible to eliminate the risk entirely.

She, however, assured that effective services are available for people who suffer strokes, stressing the importance of seeking appropriate medical care.

 

Credit: Citi News