The Silent Threat: Why stroke Remains a More Feared Condition Than Cancer
While cancer survival rates have dramatically improved, stroke continues to be a deeply concerning health crisis, notably due to the potential for debilitating long-term consequences. Many individuals, like those who have been caring for loved ones for over a decade, understand the profound impact a stroke can have, extending far beyond the initial event.
Recent data highlights the growing prevalence of stroke in South Korea. Last year, a staggering 65,275 people sought hospital treatment for stroke – encompassing both cerebral hemorrhage and cerebral infarction (blocked blood vessels in the brain). This represents a 9% increase from the 60,786 cases recorded in 2020.Alongside stroke cases, 14,310 patients were diagnosed with myocardial infarctions, also caused by blocked cardiovascular blood vessels (according to the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service). This rise is directly linked to the increasing rates of underlying conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia (dyslipidemia), compounded by the damaging effects of smoking.The fear surrounding stroke isn’t simply about mortality. While life-threatening, stroke’s lasting impact distinguishes it from cancer in many ways.Cancer, when detected early, now boasts a significantly higher survival rate. The five-year relative survival rate for cancer patients diagnosed between 2018 and 2022 reached 73% (National Cancer Registration Statistics), meaning seven out of ten patients survive for more than five years. Though, stroke frequently enough leaves individuals with severe aftereffects, including paralysis, speech impediments, and vision loss, even after treatment. This necessitates long-term care, placing a significant emotional and financial burden on families.
The incidence of stroke also varies by age and gender. While stroke and myocardial infarction generally increase with age, there’s been a notable rise in cases among men in their 40s, with a 3% increase in incidence between 2020 and last year.This is attributed to lifestyle factors like changes in diet leading to diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and increased smoking. for women,the risk increases significantly after menopause. The prevalence of hypertension surpasses that of men in their mid-60s, largely due to the decline in estrogen – a hormone that protects blood vessels during younger years. Middle-aged women, therefore, need to prioritize vascular health alongside managing menopausal symptoms.
Preventing stroke is paramount. This involves managing and treating underlying conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia. Dietary adjustments are crucial, focusing on reducing salt intake and limiting high-fat, high-calorie, and high-carbohydrate foods to control triglyceride and cholesterol levels.
eliminating smoking is essential, as it directly damages blood vessels. regular exercise also contributes to overall cardiovascular health. Crucially, recognizing the warning signs – such as paralysis on one side of the body or slurred speech – and immediately contacting emergency services (119) is vital. Rapidly clearing blocked blood vessels can minimize the severity of long-term complications like paralysis,making a swift response the most critical factor in stroke management.
