Over 110,000 people suffer from brain vascular damage annually... What is the worst lifestyle habit?

According to the '2022 Cerebrovascular Disease Incidence Statistics' announced by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency on the 30th, there were 115,740 cases of stroke (ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke) in 2022 alone. When a blood vessel in the brain is blocked (ischemic stroke) or ruptures (hemorrhagic stroke), the nearby brain area is damaged, leading to neurological symptoms such as paralysis and speech impairment. Let's take another look at cerebrovascular diseases, which increase during the winter when blood vessels constrict due to cold weather.

There are quite a few female patients... 61,988 cases for men, 48,586 cases for women.

Stroke cases number 61,988 for men and 48,586 for women. There are also a considerable number of female patients who drink and smoke less than men. It appears that hormonal and dietary habits have a combined effect. Once brain cells are damaged, recovery is difficult. It is important to recognize the symptoms and contact 119 promptly for emergency treatment. If family members or colleagues are familiar with the symptoms, they can save a person's life and reduce disabilities.

High blood pressure, smoking, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, obesity... What is the starting point of a stroke?

The most common starting point for strokes is hypertension. Eating salty foods increases the risk of high blood pressure, which can lead to stroke. Smoking is an important independent risk factor for ischemic stroke across all ages, genders, and races. Hyperlipidemia (dyslipidemia) is also one of the major causes. Diabetes, obesity, and alcohol consumption also have negative effects. It is important to improve daily lifestyle habits and undergo regular health check-ups to prevent and manage strokes.

Paralysis on one side of the body, slurred speech, and severe headache... What are the main symptoms?

Symptoms of a stroke include paralysis of one side of the body, speech difficulties such as slurred speech, visual disturbances such as blurred or double vision, dizziness, and severe headaches. If these symptoms suddenly appear, contact 119 and go to the emergency room. Especially for high-risk groups such as those with hypertension, hyperlipidemia, or smokers, even mild symptoms should not be ignored. Delays in treatment increase the risk of permanent disability.

Low-recurrence stroke, prevention is most important... Fruits such as apples, vegetables, and legumes are helpful.

Stroke recurrence is common even after treatment. In 2022, the recurrence rate among all strokes was as high as 20.4%. Therefore, prevention is the most important. To prevent and treat the most common and dangerous underlying condition, hypertension, a low-salt and low-fat diet, smoking cessation, exercise, and moderate alcohol consumption are necessary. Smoking can cause blood clots in narrowed arteries, potentially blocking blood vessels entirely. Do not underestimate mild hyperlipidemia; it is important to regularly monitor your blood vessels. Eating plenty of fruits like apples, vegetables, and soybean foods can be helpful.