Is stroke increasing in India--preventive measures that need to be implemented.

ABSTRACT

Stroke is the third commonest cause of mortality after heart disease and cancer. It is generally the disease of the aged. Prevalence rates of stroke very from one study to another. However, there has been a definite increase in the prevalence and incidence of stroke disorder in India over the last 30 years. Diabetes, smoking, hyperlipidaemia, hypertension are some of the risk factors found in stroke. To curb the rising trend of stroke in India, the two principal risk factors ie, hypertension and diabetes mellitus need to be strictly brought under control. The change in dietary habit to reduce intake of solid fat and complete cessation of smoking and chewing tobacco need also to be encouraged. Public awareness campaigns and health educations are most important part to combat increasing trend of stroke.