World Stroke Day 2025: Rising stroke cases among young adults under 40 years signal an alarming health crisis

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Traditionally seen as a disease of the elderly, stroke is now affecting a growing number of working-age young adults under 40 years. Experts attribute the cause to poor lifestyle choices, stress, and lack of awareness about early warning signs.

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted, leading to brain cell damage. The key warning signs can be remembered through BE FAST-- Balance loss, Eye vision problems, Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and Time to act quickly.

"Stroke cases among young adults have increased by nearly 50%. Every month, we see five out of ten patients under 40 presenting with symptoms such as facial drooping, arm weakness, and speech difficulties," said Dr Vishwanathan Iyer, Neurosurgeon at Zynova Shalby Hospital, Mumbai. "Common causes include smoking, alcohol consumption, poor diet, lack of exercise, long working hours, uncontrolled hypertension and diabetes, and family or genetic factors."

Dr Iyer emphasized that immediate treatment within 4.5 hours of onset can significantly improve recovery outcomes. "Quick admission and clot-busting medication can help preserve brain function. Preventive steps such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and control of blood pressure, sugar, and cholesterol levels are crucial," he said.

Echoing similar concerns, Dr Chhya Vaja, Internal Medicine Expert at Apollo Spectra, Mumbai, noted a sharp 30% rise in stroke cases among adults under 40. "Nearly three in ten young patients report stroke-related symptoms each month. Half of them remain unaware of underlying health conditions because they fail to monitor blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol. Stroke is a medical emergency - remember, ‘Time is Brain.' Early diagnosis and timely treatment can prevent long-term disability," she said.

Treatment for stroke often includes clot-busting medication, thrombectomy procedures, and rehabilitation therapies aimed at restoring neurological function and quality of life.

Experts stress that awareness, preventive care, and recognizing early warning signs remain the most effective tools in reducing the growing burden of stroke among India's younger population.