The findings suggest that lifestyle changes, proper prevention, and treatment of these risk factors could significantly reduce the incidence of severe strokes.

The study, published in the journal Neurology as part of the INTERSTROKE project, involved 13,460 patients from 32 countries, including Poland. The research was led by Catriona Reddin from the University of Galway, with Poland's contribution overseen by Professor Anna Częczna from the Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology in Warsaw.

Strokes, the second leading cause of death globally after cancer, claim nearly 5.5 million lives each year. In Poland, around 90,000 people experience strokes annually, with a disturbing 30% of those affected being under the age of 65. Despite advances in medical science, strokes remain a significant health challenge worldwide. According to the Stroke in the 21st Century report by the US National Institutes of Health, the primary risk factors for stroke include obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and atherosclerosis, which can lead to blockages in cerebral arteries.

However, the INTERSTROKE study highlights that certain risk factors are particularly critical for the most severe types of strokes. Hypertension, smoking, and atrial fibrillation were identified as the most significant contributors to severe strokes.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, affects millions of people in Poland. At least 10 million Polish citizens are prescribed hypertension medications, although the actual number is likely much higher, with studies showing that up to 45% of the adult population may suffer from the condition. This silent killer is particularly dangerous because many individuals are unaware of their elevated blood pressure and do not take the necessary steps to manage it. Untreated hypertension significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including strokes. The risk grows even higher as individuals age, making early detection and treatment essential for prevention.

Atrial fibrillation, a heart rhythm disorder, is another major risk factor for severe strokes. In Poland, approximately half a million people live with atrial fibrillation, and the condition affects one in five seniors over the age of 65. Individuals with atrial fibrillation are more vulnerable to blood clots, which can travel to the brain and cause strokes. This heart condition, when left untreated, can lead to severe and debilitating strokes, often resulting in long-term disability.

Smoking remains one of Poland's most significant health challenges. Despite a gradual decline in smoking rates among men, nearly 28% of adult Poles still smoke, including 27% of women and 30% of men. Alarmingly, smoking rates among adolescents are on the rise, with over half of Polish teenagers admitting to having smoked their first cigarette. Smoking is a well-known risk factor for numerous diseases, including stroke, as it damages blood vessels and increases the likelihood of blood clots.

The good news is that these stroke risk factors can be controlled or prevented through lifestyle changes, medical intervention, and proper treatment. Maintaining a healthy diet, quitting smoking, managing blood pressure, and treating atrial fibrillation can all significantly reduce the risk of severe stroke.

Physical activity plays a key role in stroke prevention. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), people who are more physically active are 20-30% less likely to suffer from a stroke.

The findings of the INTERSTROKE study underline the importance of targeted prevention strategies. ‘Our study shows that preventing these risk factors could significantly reduce the number of severe strokes, potentially saving lives and preventing disability,’ says Catriona Reddin.

In conclusion, while stroke remains a leading cause of death and disability, many of its most severe forms can be prevented. By addressing hypertension, smoking, and atrial fibrillation through proactive health measures, individuals can significantly lower their risk of stroke and improve their overall well-being.

(PAP)

PAP - Science in Poland, Zbigniew Wojtasiński

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