60% of Smokers at Risk Of A Stroke In Later Life, Expert Warns

90% of smokers are unaware of their health status, often neglecting to monitor their blood pressure and blood sugar levels, which puts them at a much higher risk of suffering a stroke

Smoking not only harms your lungs and heart, but it also increases the risk of stroke by damaging blood vessels and reducing oxygen supply to the brain

Kolkata: There is an association between smoking and stroke, a life-threatening condition that can strike suddenly and leave lasting disability. Smoking causes severe damage to the blood vessels, leading to narrowing and reduced blood flow to the brain. This disruption in blood circulation often results in a Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA), the medical term for a stroke. Given this clear connection, quitting smoking is essential to protect brain health and prevent stroke.

Currently, stroke cases are rising in the country. “Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA), or a stroke,  occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die. Common symptoms are sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, facial drooping, trouble speaking, loss of coordination, and severe headache. Stroke can lead to long-term complications such as paralysis, difficulty in communication, memory problems, and emotional instability.

Dr Abhik Banerjee, Zonal Technical Chief, East Zone, Apollo Diagnostic Kolkata, Said, ‘‘The causes of stroke are hypertension, diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol, and a sedentary lifestyle. However, stroke is becoming increasingly popular among young adults aged 25-45 due to smoking.  Smoking increases stroke risk by damaging blood vessel walls, making them prone to rupture or blockage, increasing blood clot formation, which can block arteries in the brain, raising blood pressure and heart rate, both major stroke risk factors, and reducing oxygen in the blood, forcing the heart to work harder and weakening brain circulation. Nearly 6 out of every 10 smokers are at risk of suffering a stroke later in life, meaning that around 60% of smokers could experience a stroke if they continue the habit.’’

Dr Banerjee further added, “Stroke diagnosis involves CT or MRI scans, blood tests, and neurological evaluations to determine the affected area and type of stroke. 90% of people who smoke aren’t aware of their health status, don’t check their blood pressure and blood sugar levels, and may suffer a stroke. Regular health checks are life-saving. Immediate medical attention is vital as treatment within the first few hours can minimize brain damage. Management includes clot-dissolving medications, blood pressure control, physiotherapy, and lifestyle changes such as exercise and diet, especially quitting smoking. So, by quitting smoking, you are not only protecting your lungs but also saving your brain from irreversible damage. Stroke is a medical emergency, but it’s also largely preventable. Quitting smoking, maintaining healthy blood pressure, and regular exercise can lower stroke risk. Smokers should take charge of their neurological health and go for regular check-ups and follow-ups, control blood pressure, blood sugar tests, and prevent a stroke.”