200 Thousand People Suffer a Stroke Annually
Stroke affects approximately 200 thousand people every year, according to a recent report from UAV. The condition, which is defined as the loss of vision, speech, movement, or sensation in certain parts of the body due to interrupted circulation to the brain, is a serious health concern.
Assoc. Prof. Gökhan Alici emphasized that most risk factors for stroke are preventable, except for genetic factors and advancing age. Harmful habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of stroke by promoting plaque formation in the blood vessels. Other risk factors include hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, lack of physical activity, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, and poor dietary habits.
Carotid artery occlusion is a significant cause of stroke, with approximately 200 thousand cases reported in Turkey each year. Ischemic stroke, which occurs due to vessel blockages, accounts for 80% of all strokes, while the remaining 20% are due to bleeding, especially from hypertension-related causes.
Treatment for stroke depends on various factors, including the degree of stenosis and accompanying risk factors. Stenting has become a common method to stabilize blocked areas and prevent clot formation. Early diagnosis and intervention play a crucial role in preventing further brain damage and improving chances of recovery.
In 2020, stroke was responsible for 7.2% of all deaths and 19.6% of cardiovascular disease-related deaths in Turkey, with one person dying from stroke every fifteen minutes. Awareness of stroke symptoms, such as sudden loss of sensation, speech difficulties, unbalanced walking, and vision loss, can help individuals seek prompt medical attention and potentially improve outcomes.
Overall, stroke remains a major health concern in Turkey, but with proper prevention strategies and timely treatment, the impact of this condition can be reduced, leading to better outcomes for patients.
