May is National Stroke Awareness Month in the US and the UK. Stroke are a huge killer, responsible for an estimated 11% of deaths worldwide, but speedy detection and treatment of a stroke can make a huge difference to a victim’s survival and recovery. That is why it is vitally important that we all educate ourselves on what a stroke is and how to detect one, as well as learning how to protect ourselves against this deadly disease.
What is a stroke?
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die so urgent medical attention is required. In 80% of cases, a stroke is caused by blocked blood vessels. It can also be caused by bleeding in the brain, for example, if a blood vessel leaks or bursts.
Stroke statistics
- According to the World Health Organization, stroke is the second leading cause of death around the world and is a leading cause of dementia and depression
- A stroke strikes every five minutes in the UK and every 40 seconds in the US.
- Stroke is a leading cause of serious long-term disability. Stroke reduces mobility in more than half of stroke survivors aged 65 or over.
- 80% of strokes in the US are preventable
How to detect a stroke
The Stroke Association has made this easy with its FAST test, which lists three checks to carry out, followed by an action if any of the checks is cause for concern. The steps to follow if you suspect someone has suffered a stroke are:
Facial weakness: Can the person smile? Has their mouth or eye drooped?
Arm weakness: Can the person raise both arms?
Speech problems: Can the person speak clearly and understand what you say?
Time to call emergency services: if you see any of these signs.
Six ways to protect against stroke
The leading causes of stroke are high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, obesity, and high cholesterol. Worryingly, a third of the US adult population has at least one of these habits or conditions. Dealing with these underlying causes of stroke can dramatically reduce your risks. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Stop smoking
Smoking doubles your risk of dying of a stroke.
2. Cut down on alcohol
It raises your blood pressure and can cause weight gain.
3. Maintain a healthy weight
Being overweight raises your risk of high blood pressure and diabetes.
4. Exercise
Regular physical activity reduces your risk of a stroke.
5. Follow a healthy diet
You know the drill: eat lots of fruit and vegetables for fibre, reduce saturated fat and limit salt intake.
6. Protect yourself financially
The risk of having a stroke increases with age but they can – and do – occur at any age. An estimated 10% of strokes occur in people under 50 and recovery can take weeks, months, or even years. The fallout can be devastating for families if a breadwinner suffers a stroke and needs time off work to recover. In some cases, sufferers are unable to return to their previous jobs.
Without financial protection, a stroke can have terrible financial consequences requiring significant lifestyle changes and/or the devastation of retirement savings. That’s why critical illness cover is a key element of a sound financial plan. It needn’t cost a fortune and could turn out to be one of the most valuable investments you make.
If you’d like to discuss critical illness cover and find out how you can protect yourself and your family against the devastating financial consequences of a stroke or other serious illness or injury, we’d love to hear from you.
A leading provider of expat financial services and wealth management services across Asia.
