According to a new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, patients who have had a stroke are at a much greater risk of dying prematurely.

In fact, the risk is not just slightly higher, but it is actually doubled compared to individuals who have not suffered a stroke. This news comes as a shock to many, especially as strokes are becoming more and more common around the world.

What is a Stroke?

Before we go any further, it is important to understand exactly what a stroke is. A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is disrupted, either due to a blockage in the blood vessels or bleeding in the brain.

This results in damage to brain cells and can cause a range of symptoms, including difficulty speaking or understanding language, weakness or numbness on one side of the body, and loss of balance or coordination.

The Study

The recent study analyzed data from almost 25,000 individuals in Denmark who had suffered a stroke.

The researchers found that over a period of 14 years, these individuals had a much higher risk of dying prematurely compared to those without a history of stroke. Specifically, they found that:.

Related Article Double Trouble: Stroke Patients Twice as Likely to Die

• Individuals who had a stroke before the age of 50 were almost four times more likely to die early
• Patients aged 50-69 were twice as likely to die early
• Patients aged 70 and over were 60% more likely to die early

Why is the Risk So High?

The main reason why patients with a history of stroke are at such a high risk of premature death is because strokes can cause long-term damage to the brain and other organs in the body.

For example, the damage caused by a stroke can lead to cognitive impairment, disability, and a higher risk of developing other health conditions, such as dementia and cardiovascular disease. Additionally, patients with a history of stroke may also be more likely to engage in other lifestyle behaviors that increase their risk of premature death, such as smoking and poor diet.

Prevention is Key

While it may be shocking to learn that stroke patients are at such a high risk of premature death, it is important to remember that there are steps that can be taken to mitigate this risk.

For example, individuals can lower their risk of developing a stroke in the first place by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and not smoking. Similarly, stroke patients can improve their long-term outcomes by following their medical treatment plan and making appropriate lifestyle changes.

The Bottom Line

While the findings of this study are certainly alarming, they should serve as a wakeup call to individuals and healthcare providers alike that more needs to be done to prevent and treat strokes.

By taking steps to reduce the risk of stroke and ensuring that proper treatment and care is provided, patients can greatly improve their chances of surviving and thriving after a stroke.