Drug Use Significantly Increases Stroke Risk, Even in Younger People
The use of drugs like cocaine and amphetamine is strongly associated with an increased risk of stroke, even among younger individuals, according to research published in December 2016. This finding highlights a concerning public health trend, as stroke is often considered a condition affecting older populations.
Researchers found that tobacco use also showed a strong association with stroke. Notably, amphetamine was the only drug in the study linked to stroke that didn’t also indicate a strong association with tobacco use.
A stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, leading to cell death according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. There are two primary types: ischemic stroke, caused by a blockage, and hemorrhagic stroke, caused by bleeding in the brain.
Symptoms of stroke can appear suddenly and include facial drooping, difficulty walking, problems with speech or understanding, dizziness, and vision loss. If symptoms resolve within 24 hours, it is classified as a transient ischemic attack (TIA), often called a “mini-stroke.”
Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, with approximately 6.3 million deaths globally in 2015. As of 2015, an estimated 42.4 million people were living with the effects of a stroke. The study’s findings underscore the importance of addressing substance use as a risk factor for this serious medical condition.
