In recent years, the number of stroke cases in people under 40 has been increasing significantly. Many people don't even think they are at risk.
People under 40 can still have a stroke due to the following reasons:
Risk factors appear earlier
Risk factors for stroke, once common in older adults, are now appearing at increasingly younger ages. This is one of the key reasons why people under 40 can still suffer strokes, according to the UK health website Medical News Today .
Prolonged psychological stress is a risk factor for stroke in people under 40. PHOTO: AI
Disorders such as high blood pressure, diabetes, dyslipidemia, obesity, and smoking can all increase the risk of stroke, even in young people. For example, high blood pressure over a long period damages the endothelium of blood vessels. When the endothelium is damaged, cholesterol and inflammatory cells accumulate, forming atherosclerotic plaques.
These plaques can narrow blood vessels or break off, forming blood clots. When these clots travel to the brain and block a blood vessel, an ischemic stroke occurs.
Psychological stress
In addition to physical factors, many scientists are also beginning to pay attention to the role of chronic stress in stroke risk in young people. In modern society, many people face prolonged pressure from work, finances, and studies.
A study published in the journal Neurology found that women aged 18 to 49 who experienced moderate stress over a long period had approximately 78% higher risk of stroke compared to those with low stress levels.
Impact of modern lifestyles
The lifestyles of young people today are also a factor contributing to the younger age of stroke. Habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, lack of exercise, and an unhealthy diet significantly increase the risk of blood vessel damage.
These habits affect the body through various biological mechanisms. For example, cigarette smoke stimulates inflammation and damages the endothelium of blood vessels. This makes it easier for blood clots to form in the blood vessels.
Other specific causes
In older adults, atherosclerosis is often the leading cause of stroke. However, in younger people, this cause is less common.
One of the important causes is carotid artery dissection. This is a condition where the inner layer of the artery wall tears. When the wall is torn, blood can leak between the layers and form a blood clot. This blood clot can travel to the brain and cause a blockage, according to Medical News Today.