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University of Cincinnati study finds stroke rates doubling in young adults

A study published in the medical journal Neurology by researchers from the University of Cincinnati reveals that stroke rates among adults aged 20 to 54 have nearly doubled over the last three decades. Analyzing data from the Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky regions from 1993 to 2020, researchers identified 2,076 first-ever strokes in this age group.

The stroke rate rose from 33.9 cases per 100,000 person-years in 1993-1994 to 62.2 cases per 100,000 person-years in 2020. This increase was primarily driven by ischemic strokes, which occur when blood flow to the brain is blocked. The rate of ischemic strokes specifically rose from 23.8 to 47.3 cases per 100,000 person-years.

Researchers noted that while stroke incidence is rising in younger populations, short-term survival rates have improved. This trend suggests a growing number of young adults may live with long-term neurological disabilities. The study also identified an increase in traditional risk factors among young stroke patients, including hypertension, diabetes, and atrial fibrillation. Notably, substance use among this group rose from 4.6% to 40.2%, with marijuana use being a significant factor.

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American Academy of Neurology · Centers for Disease Control and Prevention · Cincinnati · David Robinson · Emily R. Fisher · Neurology · University of Cincinnati · University of Cincinnati College of Medicine

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