The average age at which people suffer strokes has dropped over the past decade, according to new figures.

 

It fell from 71 to 68 for men between 2007 and 2016, while for women, the age fell from 75 to 73.

 

While the majority – 58 percent – of strokes still happen in older age, 38% occur between the ages of 40 and 69, according to data from Public Health England.

 

This is up from 33 percent in 2007.

 

Experts have now urged people to be aware of the signs of a stroke, as the research shows the condition does not just affect the elderly.

 

Professor Julia Verne, director of PHE, said: “Stroke is still one of the leading causes of death in England.

 

“While it’s often associated with older people, the latest research shows that people are having strokes at a younger age.

 

“Everyone needs to be aware of the signs.”

 

A stroke happens when the blood supply to the brain is cut off, and is the third most common cause of premature death in the UK.

 

There are about 32,000 stroke-related deaths in England each year.

 

Experts say getting the patient to the hospital as soon as you see even one of the symptoms develop – in the face, arms and speech – is essential.

 

“Speedy treatment will help prevent deaths and disability,” Verne says.

 

People aged between 40 and 74 have been urged to get health check to identify if they are at risk of a stroke.

 

Juliet Bouverie, chief executive of the Stroke Association, said: “We have said time and again that stroke devastates lives in an instant.

“Almost two thirds of stroke survivors leave hospital with a disability, but it doesn’t have to be this way.

 

“The faster you seek and receive emergency specialist treatment for stroke, the better your chances of making a good recovery.”

 

Source: Yahoo News UK