The average age of stroke patients is just 55
Physicians at Cleveland Clinic in Abu Dhabi warn youth could be “lost” to stroke. The young age of many stroke victims is of particular alarms to doctors at Abu Dhabi’s designated stroke center. A leading cause of permanent disability and death in the UAE.
Most strokes in Europe occur in people aged over 65, at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, the average age of stroke patients is just 55. Almost one in four (24.2 percent) stroke patients treated at the hospital are under the age of 45. The vast majority of stroke patients (62 percent) are under the age of 60. Factors closely linked to an increased risk of stroke include uncontrolled high blood pressure and smoking.
A survey conducted by Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi found that of respondents aged between 25 and 34, 42 percent smoked. 45 percent have high blood pressure and 45 percent consider themselves stressed. Three strong risk factors for strokes. In addition, 32 percent were obese and 40 percent fail to get enough exercise.
More than two thirds (69.6 percent) of stroke patients seen at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi are men. While men tend to have less healthy lifestyle habits than women, they are also less likely to get a health check or speak to a doctor. This makes them a critical target for reducing the impact of stroke on the community.
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Stroke symptoms include a sudden loss of balance, one side of the face drooping when trying to smile, slurred speech, and loss of vision in one or both eyes.
Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi uses the acronym BE FAST: Balance, Eyes, Face, Arms, Speech and Time. This helps people identify the signs of stroke and to have them take action in a prompt and timely manner.
People who suspect they or someone known may be having a stroke should dial 999 or call an ambulance immediately.
“Stroke is a medical emergency. From the moment a stroke happens, the brain loses around 1.9 million neurons every minute. There is a window of time from the onset of symptoms that gives us more treatment options. The longer a patient takes to get the right medical help, the more serious the long-term effects can be.” Dr. Mifsud concluded
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