India is at the forefront of an alarming increase in stroke risk among younger populations, as revealed in a recent report published in the Lancet Neurology journal. This global burden of stroke report projects a bleak future, with stroke potentially causing nearly 10 million deaths annually by 2050, primarily in low-middle income countries (LMICs) like India. The economic implications are staggering, with costs predicted to surge to $2 trillion per year. Let's delve into the key findings and the urgent call for action to address this growing crisis.
The Soaring Stroke Rates: A Global Concern
The report highlights a significant surge in the number of stroke-related deaths, exacerbated by population growth and ageing. It is estimated that the global annual death toll from stroke will increase by 50 per cent, climbing from 6.6 million in 2020 to a daunting 9.7 million in 2050. Notably, the majority of these fatalities will be concentrated in LMICs, with India bearing a significant burden, where stroke deaths are projected to rise sharply from 5.7 million in 2020 to 8.8 million in 2050.
Asia at the Epicentre
Asia, particularly India, takes centre stage in the global stroke crisis, accounting for a substantial share of stroke-related deaths. In 2020, Asia represented 61 per cent of global stroke fatalities, equivalent to approximately 4.1 million deaths, with this number predicted to swell to roughly 69 per cent by 2050, amounting to around 6.6 million deaths.
Urgent Call for Action
The report underscores the urgency of understanding the root causes behind this surge in stroke risk, including the growing burden of uncontrolled risk factors such as high blood pressure, coupled with a lack of stroke prevention and care services in India and other LMICs. It recommends the establishment of low-cost surveillance systems to provide accurate epidemiological data, raise public awareness, and prioritise acute stroke care services. Moreover, the report calls for legislative regulations and taxation on unhealthy products like salt, alcohol, sugary drinks, and trans-fats in India, a move that not only reduces consumption but generates revenue to fund prevention programs and services, reduce poverty, and improve the well-being of India's population.