Most neurology specialists agree: up to Nine out of ten strokes could be prevented If modifiable risk factors are controlled and brain-healthy lifestyle habits are adopted. In Spain, the Spanish Society of Neurology (SEN) has once again focused on prevention on the occasion of World Stroke Day.
The message is clear and direct, but also ambitious: it is in the hands of the citizens and the healthcare system To drastically reduce cases by strengthening risk screening, health education from an early age, and adherence to treatments.
Why 9 out of 10 strokes shouldn't happen
Stroke is a vascular disease closely associated with preventable factors such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes, the SmokingSedentary lifestyle or atrial fibrillation. Keeping these risks under control and improving habits is crucial.
The available evidence indicates that control blood pressure It can cut the probability of stroke by almost half, while proper cholesterol management It significantly reduces the incidence. This is further enhanced by quitting smoking, regular physical activity, and a healthy diet.
Risk factors and brain-healthy habits
To lower the accumulated risk, it is advisable to combine Primary prevention with regular check-ups and adherence to medical guidelines.
- Monitor blood pressure and cholesterol, with targets agreed upon during the consultation.
- Controlling diabetes and maintaining a healthy weight.
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
- Exercise regularly and opt for a Mediterranean-type diet.
- Taking care of your oral health: treating periodontitis can reduce systemic inflammation and the associated vascular risk.
- Take the medication as directed and do not stop taking it without consulting a doctor.
The figures in Spain: incidence, mortality and projection
In our country, they are produced every year. nearly 120.000 new cases of strokeIt is the leading cause of death in women and the main cause of acquired disability in adults, with a very high health and social impact.
The forecasts are not encouraging: if the trend is not reversed, The incidence could increase by more than 80%. and the prevalence will be around 70% by 2050, especially in older people, due to aging and greater survival after the episode.
At the regional level, there are communities with outstanding figures; for example, in Extremadura it is estimated about 2.500 diagnoses per yearThis reinforces the need to focus on prevention and early diagnosis to minimize long-term effects.
Early detection and stroke code: act without delay
Recognizing the signs and seeking help immediately makes all the difference. The symptoms are usually appear suddenly: weakness or paralysis in the face, arm or leg (especially on one side), difficulty speaking or understanding, sudden loss of vision, or severe, unusual headache.
In the face of any of these signs, one must call 112 to activate the stroke code. This care chain accelerates transfer to the appropriate center, neurological assessment, and imaging tests, allowing treatments such as thrombolysis or thrombectomy to be initiated in indicated cases.
Time matters, a lot: the sooner treatment begins, better prognosis and fewer aftereffectsEven so, there is room for improvement in social awareness of these symptoms.
Rehabilitation and continuity of care
After the acute phase, recovery requires early and intensive rehabilitationSocial and healthcare support and therapeutic adherence. Coordination between primary care, neurology, nursing, and rehabilitation is key to maintaining long-term care.
Nursing staff trained in cerebrovascular pathology are a pillar of stroke unitsbecause it helps prevent complications, supports patients and families, and reinforces health education.
In addition to the clinical aspect, it is necessary psychosocial support and a more inclusive society that addresses the invisible consequences. Integrating health and social resources improves continuity of care and reintegration.
Innovation and research: from technology to genomics
Innovation is opening new avenues for prevent, treat and rehabilitateFrom robotics applied to functional recovery to digital monitoring tools and w.
Meanwhile, European and Spanish teams are exploring genetic and epigenetic markers that help identify people with greater susceptibility to ischemic stroke and personalize preventive and therapeutic strategies.
What you can do from today
Making changes for the better always adds up: small daily decisions have a huge impact on risk stroke and other cardiovascular diseases.
- Take your blood pressure frequently and follow medical guidelines.
- Consultation on LDL cholesterol goals and lifestyle changes.
- Quit smoking with professional help if needed.
- Get moving: at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
- Prioritize vegetables, fruit, legumes, olive oil and oily fish.
- Check your teeth and gums; treat periodontitis to reduce inflammation and vascular risk.
- Don't forget your medication and scheduled check-ups.
This comprehensive approach—prevention, quick detectionTreatment and rehabilitation—allows for a reduction in cases, mortality, and disability. With more health education, care coordination, and innovation, the goal of preventing most strokes is closer.
