At a recent American Stroke Association conference, the organization presented results from a national study which reveals that stroke rates among young men and women have increased by 51 percent and 17 percent, respectively, since the mid-1990s, the Associated Press reported.
Researchers said the spike in stroke rates may stem from rising obesity rates in kids and young adults. In previous studies, the condition has also been linked to high blood pressure, which can be exacerbated by factors such as stress and anxiety
Results of the study may suggest that employers who offer comprehensive health benefits which include prevention and screening for cardiovascular diseases may have a hand in preventing stroke in younger staff members. Additionally, employee wellness programs that promote healthy lifestyle habits may be beneficial in staving off more serious illnesses.
The highest increases in stroke rates were observed in males aged between 15 and 34 years, at 51 percent. In males aged 35 to 44, stroke occurrence increased by 47 percent; and the rates for females in the same age bracket rose by 36 percent.
The American Heart Association says that warning signs of a stroke include numbness or weakness in one side of the face or limbs, sudden confusion or loss of speech, vision problems, severe headache and dizziness. The organization warns that ignoring symptoms of stroke can be detrimental.
Organizations that offer employee health benefits may be better able to maintain a healthy, happy staff.
