What Causes a Stroke to Happen?

Stroke Causes & Risk Factors: How to Stay Protected

Stroke is a major health challenge in India, as the incidence and prevalence of stroke have been increasing alarmingly in the past few decades. The current data estimates India has 1.25-1.5 million new stroke cases every year, accounting for around 10% of the global stroke burden. It is also the fourth leading cause of death and the fifth leading cause of disability in the country.

This condition takes a toll on those not just of advanced years; a sizeable number of younger adults are affected, with 1 in 4 stroke patients being under the age of 45. Given the rising toll of strokes, it is vital to be aware of what triggers this condition, the associated risk factors, and how health insurance can ensure financial security against it.

Read on to learn more!

What Causes a Stroke?

A stroke happens when blood flow to a part of the brain is stopped or decreased, preventing brain tissues from receiving oxygen and nutrients, resulting in the brain cells dying within minutes. There are two main categories of stroke:

• Ischemic Stroke: This is the more common type of stroke, accounting for around 85 to 90% of cases in India. It occurs when a blood clot blocks or narrows a blood vessel that supplies blood to the brain. The clot can also form due to fatty deposits (plaque) in the arteries or irregular heart rhythms that dislodge clots and transport them to the brain.

• Haemorrhage Stroke: A weakened blood vessel in the brain breaks and bleeds into or around the brain. Hemorrhagic strokes can also be caused by high blood pressure and by the use of blood-thinning drugs.

There’s also a transient ischemic attack (TIA), sometimes known as a “mini-stroke,” during which the blockage is temporary and doesn’t result in permanent damage but is a warning sign that you’re at high risk of a full stroke in the future.

What are the Major Risk Factors for Stroke in India?

The rising burden of strokes in India can be attributed to several factors, quite a few of them lifestyle and health conditions:

• Hypertension: It is the leading cause of stroke in India. Uncontrolled hypertension damages arteries and raises the risk of hemorrhagic and ischemic strokes.
• Diabetes: One of the most common diseases in India, diabetes damages blood vessels, thereby increasing the risk of stroke, especially when it exists in conjunction with high blood pressure.
• Tobacco Use: Smoking and chewing tobacco increase stroke risk by increasing blood pressure and damaging arteries. Tobacco, in one form or the other, is prevalent in India and significantly contributes to the incidence of stroke.
• Heart Disease: Irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation) and clogged arteries can lead to the formation of blood clots, which can result in ischemic stroke.
• Obesity and Physical Inactivity: Overweight status and sedentary lifestyles contribute to hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease, all of which increase stroke risk.
• Air Pollution: Air pollutants are a major environmental risk factor in Indian cities, and they are responsible for cardiovascular and stroke risk.
• Genetics and Age: Stroke risk usually increases with age, but in India, a considerable percentage of strokes occur in young adults under 50 years of age because of lifestyles and genetic predisposition.

What are the Current Scenario and Challenges Regarding Stroke in India?

Stroke cases have increased by 51% (from 4.4 million in 1990 to 9.4 million in 2021) in India. In some regions, such as urban areas, they have high stroke rates due to lifestyle changes, pollution, and better diagnosis. While the incidences are high, only about 25% of Indians have access to stroke-ready hospitals, which can provide the timely intervention essential to reduce disability and death.

A stroke imposes a significant economic and social burden. Survivors are frequently left with a long-term disability that requires expensive ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, and support, which can be financially draining for families.

Why Health Insurance Matters for Stroke Patients?

For individuals who are at high risk of stroke, here are the reasons why a health insurance plan can be an ideal investment:

Financial Protection Against Stroke

Treating a stroke can be costly, including hospitalization, surgery, medication, and long-term rehabilitation. In a country like India, where out-of-pocket healthcare expenditure is high, health insurance is crucial for alleviating the cost burden during times of critical medical need.

This includes policies like the Star Critical Illness Multipay Insurance, which provides comprehensive coverage for stroke and supports your recovery without depleting your savings.

Peace of Mind During Medical Emergencies

When you know you have stroke coverage, you can concentrate on healing, not payment notices. The peace of mind can relieve stress and enhance results. Also, such plans facilitate early intervention, which is critical in stroke care.

Complete Cover for Multiple Major Diseases

You can file a claim in case of critical illnesses during the policy tenure, including stroke, which allows you to leverage its multipay feature, ensuring continued coverage against different health risks.

Also, certain health insurance plans provide access to preventive health checkups, which can lead to early diagnosis and better treatment outcomes. Thus, for individuals who are at high risk of stroke, purchasing a comprehensive health insurance plan is a necessity.

Rely on Star Health for cashless treatment at more than 14,000 network hospitals, telemedicine services, ambulance coverage, and more, as well as affordable premiums.

Safeguard your health with us now!