Air Pollution and Rising Temperatures Drive Surge in Global Stroke Cases

A new study reveals that environmental factors, along with obesity and high blood pressure, are significantly increasing stroke rates worldwide.

Stroke cases have increased by 70% since 1990, now affecting nearly 12 million people annually.
Air pollution is identified as a top risk factor for strokes, contributing to 14% of stroke-related death and disability.
High temperatures and lifestyle factors like obesity and high blood pressure are also major contributors to the rise in stroke cases.
More than three-quarters of stroke-related deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, with significant disparities in stroke rates globally.
Urgent action on air pollution, climate change, and the management of obesity and high blood pressure is needed to reduce the global stroke burden.