NHS alert over ‘shocking’ rise in strokes in middle age
16 November 2024 5:55pm GMT
The NHS has raised the alarm over a “shocking” rise in strokes among the middle-aged that risk people being pushed out of work and struck down in their prime.
Official figures released to The Telegraph show cases among men and women in their 50s are rising faster than in any age group – with a 55 per cent rise in cases in 20 years.
In a message to the public to dial 999 immediately with any one of three common stroke symptoms, Prof Sir Stephen Powis, NHS medical director, said the “alarming” trends showed that the condition was not just a risk for the elderly, with the rise being fuelled by obesity, poor diet and sedentary lifestyles.
The trend far outpaces the 28 per cent increase across all ages, with concern that the surge in cases among those of working age is badly damaging the economy.
NHS England data show 111,137 hospital admissions for strokes in England in 2023-24, up from 87,069 in 2004-05.
The causes of stroke are largely preventable
Wes Streeting, the Health Secretary, said: “These figures are shocking, and even more so given the causes of stroke are largely preventable, such as high blood pressure and a poor diet.
“Prevention will always be better than cure. Not only because it means helping people to live well for longer, but also because a healthy workforce supports our growth mission too.”
Some of the trend has been driven by the ageing population. But analysis shows that Britain’s lifestyle is having a devastating impact.
The figures show a 55 per cent rise in admissions among people aged 50-59 over 20 years. This compares with a rise of 25 per cent among those in their 70s and of 42 per cent for those in their 60s.
Experts said the trend among the middle-aged could stem from rising obesity levels, poor diet and lack of exercise, fuelling high blood pressure, with some cases spotted because of improved detection methods.
Over the past 30 years, obesity levels among adults have nearly doubled, with 26 per cent now obese.
Sir Stephen added: “The surge in admissions among those in their 50s reiterates very clearly that, while more common in the over 70s, strokes are not just a risk for older people – it is essential that everyone is aware of the symptoms to look out for, and knows to dial 999 quickly.