A recent groundbreaking study has uncovered 23 factors that are closely linked to the majority of stroke cases, with some factors increasing the risk while others may help in prevention. The study, which could potentially reshape stroke prevention strategies for the future, sheds light on the significant impact of diet on stroke risk. Researchers have highlighted the importance of swapping sugary drinks for foods rich in Omega-6 fatty acids, such as safflower oil, walnuts, sunflower seeds, tofu, eggs, mayonnaise, and almonds.
The study, published in The Lancet Neurology Journal, revealed that sweetened drinks were among the leading contributors to the alarming rise in stroke cases observed between 1990 and 2021. Coupled with a diet low in Omega-6 fatty acids, these drinks were found to adversely affect heart and circulatory health. Making dietary changes by incorporating Omega-6 rich foods could potentially lower the risk of stroke significantly, according to the findings.
Over the 31-year period examined, fatal strokes surged by 44%, while new stroke cases increased by 70%. Factors such as high body mass index, high temperatures, high blood sugar, fizzy drinks, low physical activity, and high systolic blood pressure were identified as key contributors to the rise in stroke cases. Other well-known risk factors like air pollution, high blood pressure, smoking, sedentary lifestyle, and high cholesterol were also highlighted in the study.
Dr. Catherine O. Johnson, Lead Research Scientist at the Institute For Health Metrics and Evaluation, emphasised the importance of addressing changeable risk factors to mitigate the growing stroke crisis. She stressed the necessity of interventions focused on combating obesity and metabolic syndromes to prevent and control modifiable risk factors for stroke. Dr. Johnson also underscored the vital role of society in reducing strokes by promoting actions to combat climate change and reduce air pollution.
The study’s identification of these influential risk factors, many of which are modifiable through lifestyle changes, presents significant opportunities to alter the course of stroke risk for future generations. By raising awareness and implementing targeted interventions, it is hoped that the findings of this study could help curb the escalating burden of strokes worldwide.