THE SILENT THREAT: HEART STROKE AMONG YOUNG ADULTS IN INDIA

Shaik Parveen, Afreen Sultana*, Chandana Dayaka and Katepally Pranitha

ABSTRACT

Stroke in young adults is an increasingly prevalent but often overlooked health issue, particularly in India, where a
combination of urbanization, lifestyle changes, and rising prevalence of chronic diseases has led to a concerning
rise in stroke incidence among individuals aged 18 to 45. This review article aims to explore the epidemiology, risk
factors, clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges, and treatment strategies of stroke in young adults in India. We
focus on the impact of modifiable risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, smoking, and obesity, as well as the
socio-economic determinants that exacerbate the condition. The article also highlights the significant delays in
diagnosis and treatment, resulting from limited awareness and inadequate healthcare access in rural and
underserved regions. Furthermore, we address the challenges in rehabilitation and long-term care for young stroke
survivors, emphasizing the need for improved healthcare infrastructure, better post-stroke care, and public health
interventions. Given the increasing burden of stroke in young adults, we advocate for comprehensive public health
strategies, including awareness campaigns, better screening for high-risk individuals, and the integration of stroke
prevention programs into primary healthcare systems. This review concludes by underscoring the importance of a
multi-faceted approach to combat stroke in young adults in India, aiming not only to reduce the incidence but also
to mitigate the long-term impact of this debilitating condition.

Keywords: .